1.04 SSJ CRF-25-708 Redacted_Redacted.pdf

Source Selection Information – See FAR 2.101 and 3.104 code, technical reports, and other deliverables would also have delivery dates determined by project schedules and priorities within the USNO.

Describe in detail why only this source can furnish the requirements to the exclusion of other sources.

(what specific characteristics of the supplies or services limit the availability to a sole source (e.g., unique features, function of the item, etc.)?)

The USNO requires highly specialized expertise to maintain its critical almanac products and supporting software. Dr. Kaplan is uniquely qualified for this effort due to the following factors which preclude competition:

1. Unique Expertise in USNO’s Legacy Systems: Dr. Kaplan possesses unparalleled expertise in USNO's legacy algorithms (NOVAS, STELLA) gained through his role as lead developer of NOVAS since its inception. This deep understanding of legacy code and undocumented functionalities is crucial and cannot be readily replicated.

2. Specialized and Scarce Skillset: Dr. Kaplan possesses the rare combination of Ph.D.-level expertise in practical astronomy, astrometry, celestial navigation, and underlying physical principles applied specifically to USNO's operational context. This precise combination of skills is not readily available elsewhere.

3. Proprietary Knowledge of USNO Processes: Dr. Kaplan's extensive prior work with USNO has granted him proprietary knowledge of USNO's internal processes and security protocols essential for seamless project integration.

Conclusion: Dr. Kaplan's unique combination of specialized skills, proprietary knowledge, and immediate availability makes him the only source capable of fulfilling these requirements without unacceptable risk and delay. A sole source award is therefore justified.

Other information to support a sole source action:

The USNO currently utilizes the NOVAS and STELLA software systems for generating critical almanac products essential for navigation and timekeeping. These legacy systems, developed and maintained primarily by Dr. Kaplan, require highly specialized expertise to operate and update. The contracted services provided by Dr. Kaplan would be fully compatible with these existing systems in terms of form, fit, and function. This means his work would seamlessly integrate with the existing codebase of NOVAS and STELLA, utilizing the same algorithms and data formats. Furthermore, his expertise will address the specific functionalities and undocumented aspects of these systems, ensuring continued performance and accuracy. Finally, the services would adhere to USNO's internal processes and security protocols, ensuring a smooth and secure integration with the existing operational environment.

Dr. George H. Kaplan uniquely meets the qualifications set forth in the following ways:

a. Dr. Kaplan holds a Ph.D. degree in astronomy (1985) from the University of Maryland. His long, distinguished career at the U.S. Naval Observatory (1971-2007) has given him unique experience in the specific areas of interest: practical astronomy, astrometry, and celestial navigation. He is an international expert in these fields. Dr. Kaplan is an active member of the American Astronomical Society and the International Astronomical Union. He has an in depth knowledge of the USNO Astronomical Applications Department mission and its scientific underpinnings.

Source Selection Information – See FAR 2.101 and 3.104

b. Dr. Kaplan is the original author of the Naval Observatory Vector Astrometry Subroutines (NOVAS), and thus is uniquely qualified to continue maintenance and update of this software library. NOVAS is critically important for the production of the USNO Almanacs.

c. Dr. Kaplan is the original author of the System to Estimate Latitude and Longitude (STELLA) celestial navigation application and is thus uniquely qualified to provide algorithm support for this application and provide verification of an updated version of STELLA.

c. Dr. Kaplan has decades of experience programming computers using the Fortran language. NOVAS is coded in Fortran. He has also created web-based astronomical imagery services coded in NOVAS and the Interactive Data Language (IDL).

d. Dr. Kaplan has over 50 publications, many in the refereed scientific literature. He has given many presentations, including numerous ones to international audiences. His communication skills are generally regarded as being exceptional.

Dr. Kaplan is a highly qualified individual with the unique knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the tasks outlined.

Document number: N6228525RC01U2T

I CERTIFY THAT THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ABOVE IS COMPLETE AND ACCURATE TO THE BEST OF

MY KNOWLEDGE. I UNDERSTAND THAT THE PROCESSING OF THIS SOLE SOURCE JUSTIFICATION

PRECLUDES THE USE OF FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION.

1 April 2025 Signature Date

United States Naval Observatory Activity Title