The Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) is a public-private funding initiative launched by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the US in 2018. Through this program, NASA contracts private companies to deliver scientific and technological payloads to the lunar surface. By leveraging CLPS, NASA aims to enable lunar exploration in a cost-effective and timely manner, while accelerating technology demonstrations and infrastructure development in preparation for the Artemis program and future crewed lunar landings.

Prerequisites:

• Needs assessment to identify relevant areas to fund space exploration related activities

• Access to technical/business experts to support private entities applying for funding

• Lead agency & budget

• Procurement pathway

• Partner support as needed

Cost:

• Ballpark: USD 50k–250k (not including cost for funding to be provided)

• Includes: fund design and governance, technical assistance, monitoring & evaluation, administrative support.

Timeframe:

• Overall: 12-60 months

• Phase: fund design (6-12 months), funding round(s) (6 - 48 months), optional evaluation & scale-up (6 - 12 months)

Pros:

• Scope Focus - By focusing funding on projects tailored to specific use cases, organisations can strengthen expertise and technological capabilities, enhancing competitiveness. By strategically focusing resources on key projects, organisations can achieve optimal resource allocation and efficient operations.

Considerations:

• Prioritization - Necessary to understand the nation's priorities and needs to determine which activities to fund.

• Timeline - Prioritizing activities may require significant consideration and time.