Engineering contractor KBR has been awarded a $2.46 billion contract from NASA to provide critical health and safety support for astronauts and workers during space missions. The five-year deal, which begins on 1 November, includes two extension options that could stretch the partnership to 2035, raising the total contract value to $3.6 billion.

Much of the work will be centred at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, with KBR tasked with monitoring crew health, delivering occupational health services, and conducting research on risk reduction strategies. The scope of services also includes supporting the Artemis programme, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon and prepare for future deep space exploration.

The contract cements KBR’s position as a key partner in human spaceflight operations, building on its long-standing collaboration with NASA. Mark Kavanaugh, president of KBR’s defence, intelligence and space division, said the deal underscores the company’s leadership in ensuring safe and sustainable space missions.

For investors, the news sparked a 2.7% rise in KBR shares during extended trading, highlighting market confidence in the company’s ability to deliver on high-profile government contracts. Beyond immediate financial gains, the agreement reflects growing recognition of health, safety, and risk management as strategic priorities in space exploration.

Explore the full details to understand the implications for aerospace health and safety services and strategic partnerships.