Space

NASA Announces Ka-Band Satellite Relay Awards for Space Communications

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 04/11/2026, 18:05:25 UTC.

Briefings

NASA awarded three commercial firms to develop Ka-band satellite relay capabilities for space missions, enabling them to replace aging tracking and data relay satellites without modifying spacecraft hardware. The contracts, valued at $264.3 million, $340.4 million, and $460.9 million respectively, run from November 2026 to May 2027 with potential extensions to 2029. This initiative supports NASA's goal of retiring its fleet of TDRS satellites and transitioning to commercial services for future missions.

Key points

• Three commercial firms were awarded firm-fixed-price contracts to develop Ka-band space relay capabilities compatible with existing spacecraft.
• The initial contract period runs from November 4, 2026, through May 3, 2027, with additional options extending to 2029.

Context

NASA selected companies to develop Ka-band space relay capability concepts compatible with current missions, ensuring service continuity for existing spacecraft without requiring modifications to onboard systems. The awards support NASA's decision to gradually retire the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite fleet and adopt commercial services for future missions.

Limitations

Contract values are maximum potential values inclusive of all future options; actual final costs may differ. Initial period of performance is fixed at Nov 4, 2026 through May 3, 2027, with no confirmed dates for additional options beyond 2029. Evidence does not specify which specific missions will use the Ka-band services or the exact operational timeline for the TDRS fleet retirement.

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