REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: MAPPING OF WATER DEPOSITS TO SUPPORT MARS EXPLORATION PROGRAM STUDIES

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) on June 1, 2017, in support of NASA’s Mars Exploration Program. This RFP will seek two data products focused on mapping water in various forms on Mars. These are: (1). A map of the distribution and concentration of subsurface water ice within a predefined swath extending from low to high latitudes; and (2). A global map cataloging all known surface hydrated mineral deposits and their characteristics.

The resultant products are intended to inform future NASA efforts to better understand

• the nature and viability of potential water resources on Mars,
• options for accessing special regions in NASA’s ongoing search for signs of life on Mars

In addition, these results will be used to:

• Inform NASAs Mars Human Landing Sites Study (HLS2), as well as future landing site selection processes.

Notices of Intent (NOIs) are optional, but highly encouraged, and will be due on June 15, 2017.  The final proposal submission deadline is June 30, 2017.

Details of this RFP will be posted at: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/acquisition/opportunities/