News by Levels · Level 3 · Student worksheet

The New Glenn addition expanded future procurement options

In this lesson: Distinguish framework inclusion from a mission-specific award and launch.

Name: __________________________ Date: __________________

Read the story

NASA added the New Glenn 9×4 service to its multiple-award Launch Services II framework through the contract’s on-ramp provision.

The ordering window extends through June 2030, whereas the overall performance period ends in December 2032. Those dates govern different contractual stages.

NASA’s programme matches spacecraft with appropriate launch vehicles. Framework inclusion permits consideration for future work; it is distinct from a mission-specific award and from executing the launch itself.

Editorial correction, 26 October 2026: We corrected factual wording and chronology after checking the sources below. This is a retrospective archive review; the original publication date is retained.

Source: Sources checked 26 October 2026. https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-adds-blue-origin-new-glenn-9x4-to-launch-services-contract/ https://www.nasa.gov/kennedy/launch-services-program/

Read and practise

1. How should an order dated January 2031 be compared with the two stated periods?

   1. It is within the ordering window because performance continues to December 2032.
   2. It is after both periods because they both end in June 2030.
   3. It is after the ordering window, even though it is before the performance period ends.

2. What did contract entry establish?

   1. Exclusive rights to all NASA missions
   2. A specific mission already launched
   3. An option for future launch-service selection

Your turn

Describe three separate steps: joining a framework, receiving a mission order, and launching.

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Read online: https://newsbylevels.com/news/nasa-adds-new-glenn-launch-contract-september-2026/level-3/