Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute Cooperative Agreement Notice-5 (SSERVI CAN-5)

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Science Mission Directorate and Human Spaceflight Mission Directorate are issuing the fifth Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI) Cooperative Agreement (CAN‑5). The notice solicits multi‑institutional, team‑based proposals that address fundamental lunar science and near‑space environment research to support Artemis human‑exploration objectives, with “Mars forward” concepts also welcomed. Proposals are submitted in a two‑step process (Step‑1 due 29 Sep 2026, Step‑2 due 4 Dec 2026) via NSPIRES, must be anonymous, and will undergo dual‑anonymous peer review. Funding is provided through a cooperative agreement, targeting U.S. institutions (with limited non‑U.S. participation under specific conditions). The award will support a virtual institute that coordinates research across participating teams, fostering collaboration, data sharing, and technology development for lunar and Mars exploration. • Eligible applicants: U.S. research institutions (universities, labs, etc.) with NSPIRES registration. • Funding mechanism: NASA Cooperative Agreement (CFDA 43.001 – Science). • Submission process: Two‑step (Step‑1 29 Sep 2026, Step‑2 4 Dec 2026) via NSPIRES; proposals must be anonymous. • Review: Dual‑anonymous peer review; strong consideration for proposals that complement existing SSERVI teams or fill research gaps. • Scope: Basic/applied lunar science, near‑space environment, technology development for Artemis; “Mars forward” lunar‑focused research also encouraged. • Contact: Dr. Sarah Noble & Dr. Amanda Nahm (HQ‑[email protected]).