Technology
NASA Drafts Proposal for Moving Spacecraft, Possibly Shuttle Discovery
NASA is seeking proposals for transporting spacecraft, potentially including the Space Shuttle Discovery. A draft request for proposal (DRFP) was issued to explore the logistics of moving both large aerospace vehicles and smaller spacecraft capsules.
NASA has released a draft request for proposal (DRFP) concerning the "NASA Flown Space Vehicle Multimodal Transportation Multiple Award Contract." The agency seeks insights into how contractors would transport both large aerospace vehicles and smaller spacecraft capsules to various locations. This initiative aligns with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, mandating NASA to relocate a crewed spacecraft to a non-profit display facility near an agency centre linked to the commercial crew program. Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz sponsored legislation with the intent of bringing the Space Shuttle Discovery to Space Center Houston. Senator Cornyn stated that NASA's announcement sets his law into motion. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman acknowledged the possibility of an alternate artifact being delivered to Houston.
Key Facts
- NASA issued a draft request for proposal (DRFP) for spacecraft transportation.
- The DRFP aims to explore moving both large aerospace vehicles and smaller spacecraft capsules.
- The initiative aligns with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- The Act requires NASA to relocate a crewed spacecraft to a non-profit display facility.
- Senators Cornyn and Cruz intended for the Space Shuttle Discovery to go to Space Center Houston.
- Senator Cornyn applauded NASA for keeping the process moving.
- NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman acknowledged the possibility of an alternate artifact being delivered to Houston.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Ars Technica — NASA issues draft request for moving space shuttle Discovery—or Orion capsule