Orbital Sciences Corporation, Launch Systems Group, 21700 Atlantic Boulevard, Dulles, VA 20166

A -- LOW COST ACCESS TO SPACE AVAILABLE FOR SMALL EARTH ORBITING APPLICATIONS IN R&D, COMMUNICATIONS, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION, AND EDUCATION. IFB TO SUBMIT PROPOSALS TO USE EXCESS CAPACITY ON EXISTING SCHEDULED MISSIONS Due 011596. Technical POC Cary Pao 703/406-5227, FAX 703/406-3505; Contracts POC Ray Palladino 703/406-5423, FAX 703/406-3412. Available Launch Opportunities for Spacecraft or Experiments on Currently Scheduled Missions. NASA has contracted with Orbital Sciences to launch two STEDI spacecraft on separate Pegasus flights with launch dates set for March and April 1997, respectively. Both missions will be launched into sun synchronous 550 km altitude circular orbits. Each STEDI spacecraft occupies approximately half of the Pegasus payload fairing volume resulting in excess usable space of up to 29 and 39 inches, respectively in length and 46 inches in diameter for both missions. Excess performance capability of up to 220 lbs for each launch are available for use by either attached experiments or deployable free flyer spacecraft. On a separate US Navy Program, excess launch capacity for a spacecraft of up to 300 lbs is available on the Taurus vehicle scheduled for launch in 4th quarter 1996. Available volume is approximately 54 inches in length and 50 inches in diameter. The mission orbit is to a circular altitude of 800 km at 108 degrees inclination. Organizations with potential secondary payloads meeting these capabilities are invited to submit proposals for these launch opportunities on a shared or ``piggy back'' basis. Upon request, OSC technical assistance is available to optimize spacecraft interface design within available launch vehicle accommodations. Proposals should include information on spacecraft or payload description, weight, dimensions, interfaces, and schedule availability. Proposals are due by NLT January 15, 1996 and will be evaluated and selected on the basis of best value, minimization of schedule and technical risk, and overall compatibility with the primary missions. Proposals should be addressed to Orbital Sciences Corporation, Launch Systems Group, 21700 Atlantic Blvd., Dulles, VA 20166, FAX (703)406-3412, Attention: Mr. Ray Palladino. It is the intent of this solicitation to culminate in a definitive launch agreement by January 1996. (335)

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