Technology
NASA Plans for Future Spacecraft Transport, Including Shuttle Relocation
NASA is seeking proposals for transporting large aerospace vehicles and smaller spacecraft capsules. This effort may involve moving the Space Shuttle Discovery to Houston, Texas, as per legislative intent.
NASA issued a draft request for proposal (DRFP) on March 19, called the “NASA Flown Space Vehicle Multimodal Transportation Multiple Award Contract”. The request seeks information from contractors about transporting both large aerospace vehicles and smaller spacecraft capsules to various locations. The move complies with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, mandating NASA relocate a human-flown vehicle 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 intending for the Space Shuttle Discovery to be exhibited at Space Center Houston. Senator Cornyn stated that NASA's announcement sets his law in motion. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman acknowledged in December 2025 the possibility of an alternate artifact being delivered to Houston.
Key Facts
- NASA is planning the multimodal transportation of flown space vehicles.
- The draft request includes moving large aerospace vehicles and smaller spacecraft capsules.
- The initiative follows the One Big Beautiful Bill Act requirements.
- The destination of a spacecraft is not yet determined.
- The potential move involves relocating the Space Shuttle Discovery.
- Texas senators intended for Discovery to be displayed at Space Center Houston.
- NASA is assessing transportation options within budgetary constraints.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Ars Technica — NASA issues draft request for moving space shuttle Discovery—or Orion capsule