University of Michigan - STARI Dual 8U CubeSat Spacecraft Buses and Supporting Services - RFP-0012416-RES-2026
University Of Michigan-Ann ArborHigher Ed · Ann Arbor, MI- Due
- Sep 25, 2026
- Deadline passed
- Posted
- Sep 9, 2026
- Primary contact
- Bennett Gillam
- (734) 763-0265
The 30-second brief
The University of Michigan seeks proposals from qualified suppliers to provide two 8U CubeSat spacecraft buses supporting STARI (STarlight Acquisition and Reflection Toward Interferometry), a NASA-funded research mission demonstrating optical interferometry technologies in low Earth orbit. The procurement includes base hardware such as a Representative Avionics Flat-Sat and two Flight Spacecraft Buses, along with base services like pre-construction design, engineering support, on-orbit commissioning, and program management. Optional items cover launch brokerage, commercial backup communications, and extended flight software support. Proposals are due by September 25, 2026, at 4:30 PM EDT, following a posting date of September 9, 2026.
Representative Avionics Flat-Sat, Flight Spacecraft Bus #1, Section C — Flight Spacecraft Bus #2, Pre-Construction Design & Interface Engineering, Post-Delivery Pre-Launch Engineering Support, Initial On-Orbit Commissioning Support, Program Management and Reviews, Launch Brokerage and Management, Commercial Backup Communications, Additional Engineering Support (Beyond Base), Extended Flight Software Support and Customization
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Summary
The University of Michigan seeks proposals from qualified suppliers to provide two 8U CubeSat spacecraft buses supporting STARI (STarlight Acquisition and Reflection Toward Interferometry), a NASA-funded research mission demonstrating optical interferometry technologies in low Earth orbit.
The procurement includes base hardware such as a Representative Avionics Flat-Sat and two Flight Spacecraft Buses, along with base services like pre-construction design, engineering support, on-orbit commissioning, and program management. Optional items cover launch brokerage, commercial backup communications, and extended flight software support. Proposals are due by September 25, 2026, at 4:30 PM EDT, following a posting date of September 9, 2026.
REQUIRED DELIVERABLES
11- Representative Avionics Flat-Sat
- Flight Spacecraft Bus #1
- Section C — Flight Spacecraft Bus #2
- Pre-Construction Design & Interface Engineering
- Post-Delivery Pre-Launch Engineering Support
- Initial On-Orbit Commissioning Support
- Program Management and Reviews
- Launch Brokerage and Management
- Commercial Backup Communications
- Additional Engineering Support (Beyond Base)
- Extended Flight Software Support and Customization
- Submit to
- [email protected]
- Scope location
- Ann Arbor, MI
- Reported agency
- University of Michigan
Questions about this RFP
How do I respond to this RFP from University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Review the full solicitation document for submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and deadlines. The submission deadline is September 25, 2026. The solicitation specifies required deliverables that must be addressed in your response. Submissions should be delivered to: [email protected]. For questions, contact Bennett Gillam.
Can small businesses or minority-owned firms bid on this RFP?
Most government agencies, including University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor in MI, encourage participation from small businesses, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MBE/WBE/DBE). Check the full solicitation for any small business participation goals.
What happens after the RFP submission deadline?
After the deadline, the issuing agency reviews all submissions against the stated evaluation criteria. This typically includes a compliance check, technical evaluation, cost analysis, and may involve oral presentations with shortlisted vendors.
Can I ask questions about this solicitation before submitting?
Yes, most solicitations allow vendors to submit questions during a designated period. The primary contact is Bennett Gillam at (734) 763-0265. Questions and answers are typically shared with all prospective bidders.
What are the key deliverables?
The solicitation specifies the following deliverables: Representative Avionics Flat-Sat, Flight Spacecraft Bus #1, Section C — Flight Spacecraft Bus #2, Pre-Construction Design & Interface Engineering, Post-Delivery Pre-Launch Engineering Support, Initial On-Orbit Commissioning Support, Program Management and Reviews, Launch Brokerage and Management, Co. Proposals should clearly address how each deliverable will be met.
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Where can I find more RFPs from University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
All active and historical solicitations from University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor are tracked and searchable. As a higher ed agency, University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor regularly publishes solicitations. Visit the agency profile to see current open bids, past contracts, vendor relationships, and decision-maker contacts.
What documents are required to bid on this RFP?
Requirements vary by solicitation, but common documents include a technical proposal, cost/price proposal, proof of insurance, relevant certifications, past performance references, and any forms specified in the solicitation. Review the full document from University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor for the complete list.
What is the scope of this project?
This solicitation defines a specific project scope. The scope covers the following locations: Ann Arbor, MI. Review the full solicitation for detailed scope requirements.