NASA Selects Astranis for Commercial Ka-Band Relay Satellite Initiative

NASA has awarded Astranis a contract worth up to $264.3 million for the initial phase of its Network Extension for User Continuity and Sustainability (NEXUS) initiative. This aims to develop commercial Ka-band relay capabilities to support existing missions as NASA gradually retires its Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) fleet, transitioning to a commercial services model. The initial phase runs from November 4, 2026, to May 3, 2027, with follow-on phases extending through 2029.