Attending the 2026 Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC) just got a little more flexible—but it’s not without its complexities. Here’s the deal: NASA grantees can now breathe a sigh of relief when it comes to lodging expenses for LPSC 2026. In a recent letter, SARA has issued a waiver allowing attendees to be reimbursed for their actual lodging costs, even if they exceed the General Services Administration (GSA) approved rate. But here’s where it gets tricky: this waiver doesn’t override your institution’s travel policy if it’s more restrictive. So, while NASA is giving the green light, your organization might still have the final say.
The 57th LPSC, scheduled for March 16-20, 2026, will be hosted at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. For those planning ahead, detailed hotel information is available at https://www.hou.usra.edu/meetings/lpsc2026/plan/. Now, let’s talk numbers. The GSA-allowed daily lodging rate for March 2026 in zip code 77380 (The Woodlands) is set at $128 per night. However, conference hotels often come with a heftier price tag, leaving many attendees wondering how to cover the difference. This waiver steps in to bridge that gap, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If your organization’s travel policy is stricter, you’ll need to navigate those rules separately.
And this is the part most people miss: The waiver specifically applies to NASA grantees (including those on cooperative agreements), but it might also extend to individuals traveling under NASA contracts. If you fall into the latter category, it’s crucial to check in with your contracting officer to confirm eligibility. By the authority granted to me through the NSSC, I’ve approved a bulk waiver for actual lodging costs, rather than processing individual requests. This means NASA SMD grants can now cover up to $276 per night, plus taxes and fees, for the conference hotel—a significant jump from the GSA’s $128 limit for The Woodlands in March 2026.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this waiver a necessary accommodation for an important scientific gathering, or does it set a precedent for bypassing GSA rates in the future? What do you think? Should organizations prioritize flexibility for attendees, or should they adhere strictly to established guidelines? Let’s spark a conversation—share your thoughts in the comments below.
Thank you,
SARA
Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026
Editor: NASA Science Editorial Team
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