NASA has just thrown open the door to a new frontier by issuing a request for proposals to the commercial space industry for the development of private space stations in low-Earth orbit (LEO).

According to NASA’s own words, these stations will step in from 2030 onwards, taking over from the International Space Station. The plan is to ensure a sustained human presence in LEO for scientific and exploratory purposes. Several companies have already been hard at work on this, eager to know exactly what capabilities NASA is seeking. The details have finally been revealed.

The 360-page document outlines the specific requirements and NASA’s intentions. The agency plans to select two or more contractors and intends to make a final decision in April. The bidders will include Axiom Space, Voyager Space, and Vast Space, with Blue Origin having already received earlier funding but with uncertain commitment. SpaceX is not expected to participate at this stage.

Should any of these companies succeed, the potential for new opportunities in American industry is vast. NASA hopes that with a commercial presence, it can focus more on its ambitious missions to the Moon and Mars.