NASA Looks to Extend Soyuz Flights into 2016
NASA PROCUREMENT NOTICE
NASA/JSC intends to contract with Roscosmos for these services on a sole source basis for up to 12 Soyuz seats and associated services beginning in 2014 for a period up to 2 years and 6 months, through June 30, 2016. The maximum number of 12 seats may be procured using multiple modifications in increments of 6 seats to complete this entire effort.
These services are being procured through Roscosmos because the Soyuz is the only other proven crew transportation and rescue vehicle, other than the Space Shuttle, which is scheduled to retire. These services are serving as a bridge between the Space Shuttle and the availability of a commercial vehicle. Until a commercial vehicle is available, continued access to Russian human-rated launch, return, and rescue services is essential for planned ISS operations and utilization by all ISS partners.
The synopsis is after the break. The announcement can be found here.
(…) Read the rest of NASA Looks to Extend Soyuz Flights into 2016 (288 words)
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