Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute Cooperative Agreement Notice-5 (SSERVI CAN-5)
NASA invites multi-institutional teams to submit anonymous research proposals advancing lunar and Mars exploration for the Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute, with deadlines in September and December 2026.
Funder: NASA Headquarters
Due Dates: September 29, 2026 (Step-1) | December 4, 2026 (Application deadline) | December 11, 2026 (Amended Step-2)
Funding Amounts: Cooperative agreements; no cost sharing or matching required
Summary: Supports multi-institutional teams conducting lunar and near-space research to enable Artemis human exploration, including lunar-focused approaches to Mars exploration.
Key Information: Only proposers that submitted a Step-1 proposal are eligible to submit Step-2.
Description
NASA’s Science Mission Directorate and Human Spaceflight Mission Directorate administer this fifth Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute Cooperative Agreement Notice (SSERVI CAN-5), opportunity NNH26ZDA016C. The program invites multi-institutional teams to propose research as participating members of SSERVI.
Proposals must articulate an innovative program of basic and/or applied research fundamental to understanding the Moon and its near-space environment, enabling future human exploration through Artemis. “Mars forward” proposals that use lunar-focused research to develop approaches to Mars exploration are also welcome. Research that complements current CAN-4 Institute Teams or addresses important research areas not currently covered by the Institute will receive strong consideration.
