Rocket Lab is seeing red about NASA's decision on a Mars spacecraft

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In theory, developing a spacecraft that will fly to Mars, insert itself into orbit around the red planet, and relay transmissions back and forth to large satellite dishes on Earth is a relatively straightforward proposition.

NASA’s procurement of a “Mars Telecommunications Network” spacecraft, however, has turned out to be one of the most engrossing dramas of the year for the US space agency.

The agency finally reached a decision earlier this month, selecting Blue Origin to develop, launch, and operate a $700 million spacecraft at Mars. However, the main competitor for the award, Rocket Lab, was not happy—at all. On Friday, the company filed a protest of NASA’s decision with the US Government Accountability Office.

“NASA’s award decision appears to be inconsistent with the eligibility criteria mandated by Congress,” the company said on X. “In addition, the agency’s punitive review of Rocket Lab’s technical volume was inconsistent, making incorrect assertions and conclusions.”

In response, Blue Origin said the protest could potentially delay the mission’s goal of launching in 2028.

“We remain confident in the strength of our proposal, in NASA’s rigorous selection process, and in Congress’s clear intent to support competition for the Mars Telecommunications Network program,” the company said. “We look forward to advancing this urgent mission. With limited Mars launch windows, any delay will greatly risk the timely deployment of this critical communications capability.”