Boeing Awarded Space Exploration Study Contract

ST. LOUIS, September 3, 2004 - Boeing [NYSE:BA] NASA Systems received its first study contract under the Vision for Space Exploration to conduct preliminary concept studies for human lunar exploration and the development of the crew exploration vehicle (CEV).

The contract is valued at $3 million with an option for another $3 million. The contract includes a six-month base period beginning Sept. 1, with a six-month option, which may be exercised at the government's discretion. Options may be exercised based on several factors, including the quality of performance during the base period, fiscal constraints and overall support to the Vision for Space Exploration.

Boeing is one of 11 companies helping NASA define the overall architecture requirements for lunar missions in the 2015 to 2020 timeframe. The missions are part of the Vision for Space Exploration, announced by President Bush on January 14. The Vision provides a new focus for a sustained and affordable human and robotic space exploration program to explore the solar system and beyond. The contract is a result of the Concept Exploration and Refinement (CE&R) Broad Agency Announcement issued in June 2004.

Boeing is getting in on some of the action too.