Intent to Sole Source - 5G System for Lunar Surface Communications Evaluation and Radio Propagation Measurements

NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) has a requirement to develop a minimum viable solution of a 5G New Radio (5G-NR) User Equipment (UE) and 5G Network-In-a-Box (NIB). The solution must be developed with integrated Wi-Fi 6 and the key features needed to successfully demonstrate the network solution on the lunar surface and accelerate the technology readiness level (TRL) in anticipation of operational readiness for subsequent lunar missions. See Attachment A – Statement of Work for the details. NASA GRC intends to issue a sole source contract to acquire Research and Development from MODULATE SPACE CORPORATION (also known as Modul8, formerly Nokia Bell Labs’ Space Communication Solutions) under the authority of FAR 6.103-1, Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial product or commercial service using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort electronically via email to Ian Park at ian.park@nasa.gov not later than 4:00PM EDT on Friday, July 17th, 2026. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis. A decision by the Government not to compete this acquisition on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/procurement/regs/Procurement-Ombuds-Comp-Advocate-Listing.pdf