NASA's Office of Exploration Systems has released a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Human and Robotic Technology (H&RT) system-of-systems that will seek research and technology development proposals in support of the nation's Vision for Space Exploration.

The Vision for Space Exploration gives NASA a new focus and clear objectives to establish a sustained and affordable human and robotic space exploration program to explore the solar system, first returning to the moon and then Mars.

"The Office of Exploration Systems is opening up its programs to industry and academia," said Associate Administrator Rear Adm. Craig E. Steidle, USN (Ret.). "This is a significant opportunity for vendors to become involved in an open competitive process. We have adopted a new approach to reach outside expertise to work with us in developing partnerships that will benefit the nation's goals for space exploration."

This BAA is open to industry, universities and nonprofit organizations in support of the Advanced Space Technology Program (ASTP) and the Technology Maturation Program (TMP). The BAA is open for one year through July 27, 2005.

ASTP is seeking proposals in areas such as advanced concepts, technology databases, advanced materials, health management technologies, energy storage, advanced chemical propulsion, and space communications and networking.

TMP is seeking proposals in areas such as highly- reliable/autonomous deep-space cryogenic-propellant refueling systems; robust and reconfigurable habitation systems; space assembly, maintenance and servicing systems; and surface environmental management systems.