What this opportunity is
NASA is seeking to procure one compact, slope-capable tractor with specialized attachments and integrated maintenance support services for outdoor lunar simulant surface restoration at the CRATERS facility in Texas. This opportunity falls under NAICS 811411 and is suitable for small businesses capable of meeting the specified technical requirements, including operation on slopes up to 30 degrees and various implement capabilities. As this is a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notice, interested vendors should track the opportunity closely for further bidding details.
Analysis by Mindy, grounded in the SAM.gov notice.
Description
STATEMENT OF WORK
1. Objective/Requirements
The contractor shall provide one (1) compact, slope-capable tractor with specialized
attachments and integrated maintenance support services to restore outdoor lunar
simulant surfaces at the Crew & Rover Advance Testing & Exploration Readiness Site
(CRATERS) facility at NASA Johnson Space Center.
The equipment shall be capable of:
• Operating safely and continuously on slopes up to 30 degrees in all directions
(uphill, downhill, and cross-slope)
• Breaking hardened simulant crust formed by environmental weathering
• Tilling compacted simulant to a controlled depth of one to four inches
• Redistributing small rocks and pebbles to the surface without accumulation
• Moving and redistributing larger volumes of simulant material
• Grading, leveling, and finishing simulant surfaces
• Performing all operations without damaging the ABS geoweb drainage grid
installed beneath the simulant surface
• Supporting periodic resurfacing operations required approximately every one to
two months to maintain consistent test conditions for Artemis program crew
training and rover testing activities.
2. Characteristics, Scope, and Specs
2. Characteristics, Scope, and Specifications
2.1 Tractor Specifications (Salient Characteristics)
The contractor shall provide a compact tractor capable of continuous operation on slopes up
to 30 degrees in all directions. The tractor shall feature an articulated frame and articulated
steering for maneuverability around rocks and obstacles, dual-wheel capability for stability,
and a low center of gravity design. The engine oil lubrication system shall be designed for
continuous 30-degree slope operation without time limitations.
Required capabilities:
• Minimum 30 hp liquid-cooled engine rated for 30° continuous slope operation
• All-wheel drive with articulated chassis
• Dual-wheel system extending wheelbase width and reducing ground pressure by
approximately 50%
• Automated slope-sensing and warning system
• Inflatable tires
• Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) with operator canopy and sun protection
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• Maximum width with dual wheels: approximately 70-75 inches
• Turning radius: approximately 40 inches or less
Implement control system:
• Category 1 3-point hitch with hydraulic lift and auxiliary controls
• Front-mount hydraulic system with quick-connect capability
• Minimum 3 independent hydraulic auxiliary circuits for powered implements
• Variable speed and reversible direction control for rotating implements
• Intuitive controls (SDLA-style or equivalent) accessible from operator seat
• Adjustable suspension seat for extended operation
2.2 Required Implements
A. Power Rake (Rotating Resurfacing Implement)
Hydraulically driven rotating drum with minimum 70 replaceable carbide tips capable of
breaking hardened crust, tilling to controlled depth (1-4 inches), and redistributing rocks
without accumulation. Shall include:
• Hydraulic depth adjustment (+2" to -6" range) controllable from operator seat
• Variable speed with forward/reverse rotation
• Hydraulic angle adjustment (minimum 18° left/right)
• Capability to process rocks up to 12 inches diameter without jamming
• Working width: approximately 55-65 inches
• Weight: approximately 650-700 lbs
B. Landscape Rake with Hydraulic Height Adjustment
Grading and leveling implement with curved bidirectional tines. Shall include:
• Hydraulic power angle (minimum 28° left/right)
• Hydraulic height adjustment (minimum 6-inch range) from operator seat
• Adjustable gauge wheels
• Working width: approximately 50-70 inches (with optional extensions)
• Capability to be configured for both front-mounted and rear-mounted operations
C. Material Handling Loader
Front-mounted hydraulic loader with light-material bucket (minimum 1/2 cubic yard
capacity). Shall include:
• Maximum lift height: minimum 50 inches
• Lift capacity: minimum 400 lbs on level ground
• Dump angle: minimum 35°
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• Quick-attach system for multiple tools
• Brush guard for hydraulic/grille protection
• Working width: approximately 50-70 inches
2.3 Required Accessories
The complete system shall include: dual-wheel kit for 30° slope operations; 3-point hitch
with auxiliary hydraulics; hydraulic control kit with minimum 3 auxiliary circuits;
counterbalance weights (minimum 250 lbs total); brush guard; operator canopy with fan;
suspension seat; landscape rake extensions; and hydraulic height adjustment kit for landscape
rake.
2.4 On-Site Maintenance and Support Services
The contractor shall provide integrated maintenance services as part of this procurement,
including:
Scheduled preventative maintenance:
• Four (4) on-site service visits by manufacturer-certified technicians during warranty
period
• Each visit includes: engine/hydraulic service, lubrication, filter changes, implement
inspection, and operational assessment
• Up to 2 hours labor per visit with travel at no additional cost
• Warranty repairs performed at no cost and not counted against service hours
Ongoing support capabilities:
• Manufacturer-certified mobile technicians for on-site service at CRATERS facility
• Pickup/delivery service if shop repairs required (no additional charge)
• On-site operator training (minimum 2 hours) covering safety, operation, and
maintenance
• Phone/email technical support for troubleshooting
• Warranty travel expenses at no cost to Government
• Service facility within 50 miles of JSC for rapid response
2.5 Delivery and Documentation
Equipment shall be delivered fully assembled and operational within 15 days after receipt of
order, no later than July 15, 2026. Delivery shall include all operator manuals, safety
documentation, and maintenance schedules in English. Contractor shall coordinate delivery
with COR and provide operator familiarization briefing (minimum 2 hours).
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2.6 Warranty
Minimum 2-year warranty on tractor and implements, 3-year warranty on engine. All
warranty service performed by man…
Source: SAM.gov, as posted. Verify the current solicitation before responding.