NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

12.17.08 The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to obtain input from educational institutions, science museums, and other appropriate organizations about the community’s ability to acquire and publicly display the Space Shuttle Orbiters and Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSME) after conclusion of the Space Shuttle Program.

The RFI seeks input from educational institutions, science museums, and other appropriate organizations with experience in public display of space hardware and nationally-recognized historical artifacts. NASA will use information gained from this RFI to develop strategies for eventual placement of two Space Shuttle Orbiters and a minimum of six unassembled SSME display engine “kits.”

NASA’s primary goal of this effort is to collect a wide variety of perspectives on whether eligible recipient organizations are capable of appropriately displaying the Space Shuttle Orbiters and SSMEs and bearing the full cost of preparing the hardware for display and transportation to its final destination. The RFI also seeks ideas on how these assets can best be used in the broad national interest to inspire the American public and students in particular. Organizations interested in responding to the RFI must provide their input to NASA within 90 days.

Download RFI on Orbiter and SSME Placement

1.29.09 NASA committed to respond publicly to all inquiries regarding the RFI that are received within 30 days from the date the RFI was issued. NASA received 13 inquiries by the January 16, 2009 cut-off date. The inquiries received and NASA's responses are now available.
Download RFI Inquiries and NASA Responses.

This information can also be found on NAIS.