Contract Announced November 7, 2026 /

NASA selects SpaceX for Starship cislunar communications deployment demonstration

NASA selected SpaceX to launch communications satellites aboard Starship into cislunar space in 2028. The demonstration is intended to inform the architecture of future lunar communications networks supporting astronauts, mission controllers and Moon Base operations. SpaceX was also selected for the 10-year CLPS 2 framework, alongside seven other companies.

Why it matters

The task order gives Starship a defined lunar infrastructure role beyond crew and cargo transportation. Its execution depends on Starship reaching operational maturity and demonstrating the required mission capabilities.

The numbers

Money

Clps2 framework ceiling

$10B

The CLPS 2 framework has a combined maximum value of $10 billion.

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Specs & figures

Planned launch year

2,028 yr

SpaceX will launch communications satellites aboard a Starship to cislunar space in 2028.

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Clps2 framework duration

10 yr

The CLPS 2 framework is a 10-year contract.

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Coverage

2 reports

NASA ·Nov 7, 2026
NASA Awards Moon Base Transportation, Technology, Science Projects
NASA selected SpaceX for a Cislunar Communications Deployment Demonstration under an existing lunar logistics contract. SpaceX is tasked with launching communications satellites aboard Starship to cislunar space in 2028. NASA also selected SpaceX as one of eight companies eligible to compete for future lunar surface delivery missions under CLPS 2.

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NASA ·Nov 4, 2026
NASA Announces Ka-Band Satellite Relay Awards for Space Communications
NASA awarded three companies contracts to develop commercial Ka-band relay capabilities compatible with existing spacecraft. The programme is intended to provide continuity for missions that cannot modify their communications hardware as NASA transitions away from its Tracking and Data Relay Satellite fleet.

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