The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Science Mission Directorate (SMD) has released its Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) 2025, which includes the C.15 Planetary Protection Research program element. This program is part of an annual omnibus research announcement that covers various scientific research and technology development topics related to NASA’s mission. The overarching goal of this particular program element is to support planetary protection research, ensuring compliance with NASA's policies on biological contamination control for space exploration.

This funding opportunity is categorized under Science and Technology and other Research and Development, with awards being made in the form of grants or cooperative agreements. The program does not require cost-sharing or matching funds, making it more accessible to eligible applicants. The research period for awarded projects typically extends to three years, though some programs may allow for up to five years or specify shorter durations.

Proposals may be submitted at any time before the final deadline of March 31, 2026, but specific timing eligibility issues, including those related to resubmissions and duplicate proposal avoidance, must be adhered to as outlined in the ROSES-25 rules and the current Grant and Cooperative Agreement Manual (GCAM). Additionally, the program will overlap with the ROSES-26 version for a short period to ensure continuous submission opportunities across ROSES years.

Eligibility for this opportunity is generally restricted to institutions registered on the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES). U.S.-based organizations are typically the primary recipients of funding, while non-U.S. institutions may participate under a policy of no-exchange-of-funds. Special guidelines for non-U.S. participants are outlined in the NASA Proposer’s Guide. Proposals from government and private organizations, for-profit and non-profit entities, and academic institutions may be considered without restriction on teaming arrangements.

To apply, proposers must retrieve and complete the required forms included in the application package available through the designated NASA solicitation portal. Specific program elements and instructions can be accessed via links to the ROSES tables (Tables 2 and 3) at NSPIRES. Applicants should thoroughly review the full solicitation details, including the summary of solicitation, proposal requirements, and deadlines for individual program elements.

For further details, frequently asked questions, and updates, interested parties can visit the ROSES-2025 blog feed or subscribe to NASA’s mailing lists. General inquiries regarding the ROSES-2025 opportunity should be directed to the SMD Deputy Associate Administrator for Research via email at sara@nasa.gov. Questions specifically related to the Planetary Protection Research program can be addressed to David J. Smith at HQ-PPR@mail.nasa.gov.