Attachment H - Offeror Questions.pdf

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Mobile Shelter Structure for Lunar Lander
Solicitation number
80LARC891866Q
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This file is an "Offeror Questions" document for NASA Langley Research Center's Solicitation 80LARC891866Q for a Mobile Shelter Structure (MSS) for a Lunar Lander project. The solicitation is a total small business set-aside for a mobile shelter structure capable of fully enclosing a Boilerplate Lunar Lander (BLL), with requirements including six-year rated protection against wind and precipitation, anchoring capabilities, and on-site assembly at NASA's Landing and Impact Research (LandIR) Facility.

Key dates include a site visit on February 20, 2025, offeror questions deadline of February 24, 2025, and quote submission deadline of March 5, 2025. The initial unassembled MSS delivery is required by May 16, 2025, with final completed assembly and commissioning by June 13, 2025. The procurement will use NET 30 payment terms, and award will be made to the most advantageous offer considering technical capability, price, and delivery. The NAICS code is 332311 with a 750-employee size standard, and offerors must provide end products from manufacturers certified as small business concerns.

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80LARC891866Q

OFFEROR QUESTIONS

Mobile Shelter Structure for Lunar Lander

Instructions. Q = Question / R = Government Response.

Q-01. Can the due date be extended out by two to three weeks? Understanding what the "Keep out zone" means to the MSS design envelope necessitates some significant redesign. There is not a high probability that we can meet your March 7 deadline with a quality proposal that captures all of the new information we have.

R-01. NASA will take this into consideration. Please reference the solicitation for any changes to submission deadlines.

(End Question 01)

Q-02. Can the existing gantry be used as a support element (e.g. guy cables between gantry and MSS)?

R-02. No, the Gantry cannot be used as a support element.

(End Question 02)

Q-03. SOW 4.1.1.1 states a required 6-year life. Is it acceptable for the MSS to experience surface corrosion (rust) that does not impact structural integrity that is not normally desired or acceptable for durable ground support equipment? 4.1.4 calls for ASTM A123 galvanizing, which is a superior protective coating choice designed to provide decades of protection.

R-03. Yes. Surface corrosion that does not impact structural integrity is acceptable as long as it does not compromise the 6-year lifetime requirement. NASA plans to amend the SOW. Please reference the most current version of the SOW for all updates.

(End Question 03)

Q-04. SOW 4.1.2.1.1 provides the net dimensions for the BLL. It is represented as two stacked cuboids that inform the Clearance Boundary dimensions. Can Customer confirm that the BLL X or Y axis will always be parallel to the 210’ line shown in the Operating Area (4.1.2.4.1 Figure 3). This confirms that the BLL will never be rotated 45° about the Z axis and thus present a wider perspective to the interior of the MSS or its Large Bay Door (LBD).

R-04. Yes. The BLL X or Y axis will always be parallel to the 210’ line shown in Figure 3.

(End Question 04)

Q-05. SOW 4.1.2.1.1 provides minimum interior dimensions with a Boundary nominally 7.5’ around the BLL base perimeter. Can Customer confirm that a similar 7.5’ boundary exists around the upper portion of the BLL (shown as Z2)? Can Customer confirm that a similar 7.5’ boundary exists above the BLL portion described as Z1? Can Contractor infer the existence of a Clearance Boundary above the BLL Z1 portion (Z0 = 24.5’)?

R-05. The SOW currently states that a 7.5 ft boundary exists around the lower portion of the BLL which would translate to a 13 ft boundary around the upper portion of the BLL. NASA plans to amend the SOW to permit a reduced minimum boundary of 7.5 ft around the upper portion of the BLL. Please reference the most current version of the SOW for all updates. No boundary exists between the lower and upper portions of the BLL. A minimum clearance boundary of 2 ft exists above the upper portion of the BLL, Z2. NASA plans to amend the SOW to clarify this.

(End Question 05)

Q-06. SOW 4.1.2.2.1 provides for a minimum net clear opening for the LBD. Can Customer confirm that 2’ of clearance between BLL (sides and top) and LBD is the requirement, and that the Clearance Boundary from the previous paragraph does not apply to the LBD opening?

R-06. Correct. The minimum required clearance boundary (sides and top) between the large bay door (LBD) and the BLL is 2 ft.

(End Question 06)

Q-07. SOW 4.1.2.4 states that the gray cross hatched area will see addition of a reinforced concrete pad and further states that the MSS will be permitted to traverse onto the crosshatched areas of the pad.

Confirm that the transition from existing concrete grade to the new pad will be a gradual ramp that allows such traverse by the MSS using rolling wheels.

R-07. The transition between the existing concrete grade and the added reinforced concrete pad will be a vertical step up.

(End Question 07)

Q-08. Can Contractor install anchors (type/size/quantity/location TBD) within the cross hatched area to stabilize the MSS? Confirm that Contractor may install such anchors as needed beyond the cross-hatched area.

R-08. The Contractor may design and propose anchors that are required to be installed within and beyond the cross-hatched area shown in SOW section 4.1.2.4.1. Figure 3. However, the Contractor shall not propose anchors that are required to be installed within the red keep out zone indicated in Figure 3.

(End Question 08)

Q-09. SOW 4.1.3 states as a requirement, that if a fabric panel system is used as the Exterior Surface, that equal numbers of replacement panels matching the panel count of the MSS are to be provided. This implies that a second, complete cover system is provided (as a spare) with the MSS. Customer please confirm. Does this requirement apply to any other Exterior Surface solution?

R-09. If a fabric panel system is used as the Exterior Surface, a system for patching is required but a second complete cover system is not needed. NASA plans to amend the SOW. Please reference the most current version of the SOW for all updates. This requirement does not apply to any other exterior surface solution.

(End Question 09)

Q-10. SOW 4.1.6 proposes a method of moving the MSS that this Contractor’s experience demonstrates will not work as anticipated by the customer. Is it acceptable to propose a different method using the Customer’s stated equipment?

R-10. Yes, a different method of moving the MSS is permissible as long as it can be moved with NASA’s stated equipment.

(End Question 10)

Q-11. SWO 10. 4.2.1.3 states that the anchoring system design shall not require modifications to the LandIR facility. Anchors must be attached to the existing concrete. Such attachment will require drilling into the existing concrete. Is this acceptable?

R-11. Yes, anchors may be designed for attachment to the existing concrete and drilling into the existing concrete is acceptable. NASA plans to amend the SOW to clarify. Please reference the most current version of the SOW for all updates.

(End Question 11)

Q-12. Based upon site visit of February 25, 2025, the available width of concrete (~54’ south of “centerline path of travel” is concerning both in terms of supporting the MSS travel wheels and anchoring system. Is it permissible to add reinforced concrete south of the existing concrete?

R-12. No, the addition of reinforced concrete south of the existing concrete is not permissible.

(End Question 12)

Q-13. SOW 5.3.2 states that Contractor shall perform the unloading task. Customer states that they have a 10K telehandler, which equipment is capable of unloading all MSS components to be delivered by flatbed truck. If Customer can unload materials before Contractor’s install crew arrives, there is a savings to the Government vs. having a Contractor crew and equipment dispatched early to await deliveries. Delivery of the steel and fabric can be scheduled in cooperation with the Customer and there would only be 3-4 flatbed trucks to unload.

R-13. Yes, in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the contract, specifically LaRC 52.211-96 and SOW Section 5.4.2, NASA can assist with unloading of the MSS components prior to the Contractor’s install crew arrival, assuming unloading can be accomplished with NASA’s 10K telehandler.

(End Question 13)

Q-14. Will Customer provide a 40-yd dumpster for refuse and arrange its haul off or must Contractor provide? May Contractor personnel use Bldg 1297 sanitary facilities during the installation process?

R-14. NASA will not be providing a 40-yd dumpster for refuse. If a dumpster is required, the Contractor would need to provide it. Yes, the Contractor personnel will be able to use B1297 sanitary facilities during installation of the MSS.

(End Question 14)

Q-15. SOW 5.4 states that NASA shall be responsible for assembly and installation of the MSS anchoring system. Please clarify. This is normally a function performed by the installation crew and often requires field fit adjustments when faced with cracked concrete or control joints that occur precisely where an anchor is planned.

R-15. Should the proposed shelter anchoring system design require anchors to be installed in the existing or new concrete, NASA will be responsible for the installation. NASA will work with the Contractor to ensure the final design is compatible with the existing concrete.

(End Question 15)

Q-16. SOW 6.1 states that Contractor shall provide a certificate that the exterior membrane material meets NFPA 701 and CA Fire Marshall requirements. Certain architectural fabrics meet this requirement by definition, and the mill provides a blanket certificate of compliance. Is this certificate acceptable?

R-16. Yes, providing a blanket certificate of compliance by the manufacturer for the fabric being utilized is acceptable.

(End Question 16)

Q-17. This RFQ is classified as Total Small Business Set-Aside on the announcement. The payment terms of Net 30 requires that a small business self-finance a significant amount of working capital. Request that FAR 52.232-14 and 52.232-16 regarding Progress Payments be incorporated into this solicitation to make this project more compatible with true small business entities.

R-17. Commercial product financing is not being offered for this procurement. Market research did not indicate that financing was a customary practice in the marketplace for purchase of this item.

(End Question 17)

Q-18. Are there any additional NDE requirements beyond those required for AWS D.1?

R-18. No. There are no additional NDE requirements beyond those required for AWS D.1.

(End Question 18)

Q-19. Will there be a requirement for ACS (access control) for either one of the door locking mechanisms? Or will a standing door lock (man door) and padlocking system (BLL door) be sufficient.

R-19. A standing door lock for the man door and padlocking system for the large bay door is sufficient.

(End Question 19)

Q-20. The SOW calls out a concrete anchorage system for the structure. Section 4.1.2.4. of the SOW states: The MSS design shall not require modifications to the LandIR facility, such as installing rails or modifying the existing concrete.

(a) We assume this to mean that a concrete anchor does not constitute a modification of the existing concrete. Is this correct?

(b) Since no concrete can be added to the site, we would need to know the specifics of the existing concrete in order to design an anchorage system. Are these concrete specifications available (thickness, strength, reinforcement details)?

R-20. (a) Correct. Concrete anchors are permissible. NASA plans to amend the SOW. Please reference the most current version of the SOW for all updates. (b) The concrete under the Gantry was placed in sections between the late 1960s and 2000. The minimum thickness is at least 6 inches with a compressive strength of 3000 psi. The existing concrete is unreinforced.

(End Question 20)

Q-21. Section 4.2.1.3. of the SOW calls for the anchorage system to withstand 65 mph wind loads and 10psf snow loads. Is this the design load for the entire structure? Do these requirements meet local codes? If not, is it sufficient to design to the loads in the SOW or would local requirements supersede?

R-21. Yes, the design loads for the Mobile shelter structure when anchored (SOW section 4.1.1.2.1) are the same as for the anchoring system itself. The wind load detailed in the SOW is below that specified in local codes. It is sufficient to design to the loads in the SOW.

(End Question 21)

Q-22. Addressing the schedule, the milestone dates in the SOW (delivery of materials by 5/16, completion by 6/13). With a bid due date of 3/5, this does not appear to be obtainable. We would require 30 days for engineering from award, and a minimum of 8 weeks to fabricate upon final engineering approval by the client. Will the government be flexible on the schedule?

R-22. NASA plans to update the delivery dates in the SOW. Please reference the most current version of the SOW for all updates.

(End Question 22)

Q-23. A laydown area will be needed for the materials and to build.

(a) Where will the laydown area be located in relation to the gantry?

(b) Will there be schedule limitations on access to the gantry area during construct of the MSS?

R-23. (a) The laydown area will be inside the gantry structure on the existing concrete. The exact location will be identified closer to the MSS delivery date in partnership with the Contractor.

(b) The facility schedule is currently aligned to the delivery and construction of the MSS. No schedule or gantry access limitations are expected at this time. Both of these details will be worked in partnership with the Contractor after award.

(End Question 23)

Q-24. Can information be provided on the existing concrete – thickness/etc?

R-24. Please see response to question #20.

(End Question 24)

Q-25. How large of gap (if any) is acceptable at the bottom of the structure?

R-25. A gap of up to a foot (12 inches) is acceptable at the bottom of the Mobile Shelter structure.

(End Question 25)

Q-26. SOW Page 4 mentions “ventilation area,” are ventilation areas/ports required? Does the MSS structural need to allow for ports/opening for other utilities?

R-26. Ventilation areas are not required. Ports/openings for other utilities are also not required.

(End Question 26)

Q-27. What type of connection points are required or currently utilized by the forklift and NASA truck?

R-27. The forklift/telehandler owned by NASA is CAT model number TL1055D. Please refer to product information to see how it may be utilized.

(End Question 27)

Q-28. What is the approval cycle and duration for NASA to approve the final design documents?

(a) Schedule concern: If the effort is awarded by March 31st the design documents will not be delivered until potentially April 30th. The schedule has May 16th noted as the date for the preassembly MSS delivery. This allows only 2 weeks for review/approval and the Contractor to order/purchase materials and have them delivered. Unless the Contractor does the purchasing at risk.

R-28. The NASA team should be able to meet a two-week turnaround of the design documents.

Please see response to question #22 for updated delivery dates.

(End Question 28)

Q-29. Are the final design documents required to be PE stamped?

(a) If the design documents are stamped by a PE does the 3rd party engineer still need to perform the Load Report?

R-29. No and (a) Yes.

(End Question 29)

Q-30. SOW Page 7, 5.3.2 notes that NASA may utilize a 3rd party Contractor for rigging and crane services, is this at no cost to the Contractor or does the Contractor need to bid crane services as part of the effort?

R-30. See Q13 response with regard to offloading shelter materials. If assembly of the proposed Shelter requires rigging and crane services, those services would be part of the Contractor quote.

The SOW will be updated to clarify.

(End Question 30)

Q-31. What is included on the commission process?

R-31. Once the Mobile Shelter is assembled and anchoring system has been installed, commissioning would entail inspection and training of facility personnel.

(End Question 31)

Q-32. Can distances the gantry be provided? This info is needed to determine how tall and wide can the MSS be and still fit in the allocated area.

R-32. As stated in the SOW, NASA’s Gantry is 240 feet tall, 260 feet wide (North-South) and 400 feet long (East-West). A couple of truss lengths extend west off of the East end at an elevation of 150 feet from the existing concrete floor. These trusses are noted on the drawing below along with some additional measurements. The Gantry structure is not expected to interfere with the operation of the MSS.

(End Question 32)

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