NIGP 62584: Telescopes, Astronomical, Observatory Sizes, and Guide Telescopes, Schmidt Cameras, etc.

NIGP 62584 Telescopes, Astronomical, Observatory Sizes, and Guide Telescopes, Schmidt Cameras, Etc., Item code, encompasses specialized optical instruments and related equipment that state and local governments procure for astronomical research, education, and observation. Recent state and local opportunities show that jurisdictions are buying telescope mounts with accessories, advanced astronomical cameras with filter wheels, observatory automation equipment, and related optical peripherals to upgrade research facilities and support educational programs. The issuing bodies span higher education institutions (Columbus State University in Georgia), cooperative purchasing vehicles serving multiple jurisdictions (Sourcewell on behalf of participating counties and municipalities across multiple states), and city technology departments, though the recent opportunities show limited direct activity under this specific code — the astronomy-focused procurement represents the clearest fit, while law enforcement equipment and network camera solicitations appear misaligned with the code's astronomical scope.

Columbus State University issued an eRFQ in March 2026 for PlaneWave telescope mount and accessories, including an advanced astronomical camera with filter wheel and filters and observatory dome automation equipment to upgrade the WestRock Observatory; responses were due March 27, 2026. Geographic concentration in recent activity appears minimal — the identified opportunity comes from Georgia, while Sourcewell's law enforcement cooperative procurement spans multiple states including Washington and extends throughout the United States and Canada. The code shows sparse recent dedicated solicitation volume in the state and local market, with the Columbus State University procurement representing the primary concrete opportunity aligned to astronomical instrumentation.