NASA Opens Second Proposal Window for Three Observatories

The ROSES-25 Amendment 80 solicitation invites researchers to propose investigations for upcoming Swift, Fermi, and TESS cycles.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Space

Bold flat-color editorial illustration in navy, cream, and red, showing abstract geometric silhouettes of three space telescopes, representing NASA research opportunities. — NASA has opened the ROSES-25 proposal window for research investigations using the Swift, Fermi, and TESS space-based observatories. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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NASA has opened a second round of proposal opportunities for the Swift, Fermi, and TESS General Investigator programs via the ROSES-25 Amendment 80. This solicitation invites researchers to submit investigations for upcoming data analysis and observation cycles for these three space-based observatories.

Why it matters

These programs aim to broaden scientific participation by providing essential funding for data analysis and research investigations. The funding cycle supports investigators in maximizing the scientific output from the aging but still active Swift and Fermi satellites alongside the TESS exoplanet mission.

The solicitation supports diverse project durations, including 12-month standard investigations for all three observatories. TESS Cycle 10 specifically allows for large programs spanning up to two years, while Fermi Cycle 20 permits large proposals up to three years.

The players

NASA

The federal agency responsible for the U.S. civil space program, which maintains a portfolio of space-based observatories and funds research via the ROSES grant system.

The details

Researchers must submit Phase-1 proposals through the ARK RPS system, adhering to guidelines in the D.3 Combined General Investigator General Observer Program sections 12 through 14. Swift Cycle 23 focuses on theoretical and archival data analysis, Fermi Cycle 20 supports data-driven research with correlative observations, and TESS Cycle 10 covers data from Sectors 122 through 134, including eligible ground-based telescope support.

October 20, 2026: Announcement of ROSES-25 Amendment 80.
January 28, 2027: Deadline for Phase-1 proposal submissions.
July 1, 2027: Expected start date for Swift Cycle 23.
September 19, 2027: Start of TESS Cycle 10 observations.
September 13, 2028: Conclusion of TESS Cycle 10 observations.

The Tech Race

This solicitation follows the established rhythm of NASA's ROSES program, which manages competitive grants to sustain research across aging space assets. It ensures a continuous pipeline of investigators as the Swift and Fermi missions compete with newer platforms for time and scientific relevance.

Researchers specializing in astrophysics and planetary science have until January 28, 2027, to prepare their proposals for these observation and analysis cycles. Success requires navigating the ARK RPS system and complying with the specific technical requirements defined in the D.3 program documentation.

The takeaway

NASA continues to prioritize the exploitation of its existing observatory fleet by lowering barriers to secondary research proposals. Interested applicants should monitor the upcoming proposal deadline and align their research goals with the specified cycle windows for TESS, Fermi, and Swift.