Enclosure 2 - COMET Questions and Responses.pdf

COMET RFP No. 80KSC022R0004 Responses to Questions Received in Response to 1 the Draft RFP and Industry Day and During One-On-One Exchanges

Enclosure 2

No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

1 Attachment J-01

2.2.3 2.2.3.4 23 This PWS section does not include a subsection numbered

2.2.3.4. Is this PWS area missing a subsection, or have the

subsections just been misnumbered?

The solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

2 Section L L.21.3 N/A 125 The Small Business Utilization section is currently included in the Mission Suitability Volume's 125 page limit. Will the government consider making the SB Utilization response a standalone plan with a designated page count, outside of the 125 MSV page limit?

No, the offeror's response to the small business utilization subfactor must be submitted within Volume I Mission Suitability.

3 Section L L.22 (d)(10) 130 Is it the government's intent that the three full years of OSHA Form 300A data be included as part of the Past Performance Volume's 50 page limit?

No, the solicitation has been updated to clarify.

4 Attachment J-01

2.1.1.1 2.1.1.1.3 15 It states KNPR 8715.3-1_COMET, KSC Safety Procedural Requirements for the COMET Contract, however there is no KNPR 8715.3-1_ COMET document in the bidders library. Should it be “KNPR 871531 KSC Safety Procedural Requirements Volume 1 Safety Procedural Requirements for Civil Servants NASA Contractors Rev B?

No, the document has been added to the Bidders Library.

5 Appendix 07 N/A N/A 63 Will CAIDA be transitioned over to COMET for Sustaining at some point during the contract?

Yes, the solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

6 Appendix 01 N/A N/A N/A Will the definitions of what is in each of the risk categories evolve and change over the life of the contract? (i.e., things that are considered high risk and require NASA approval as you go could move to Medium or Low Risk as time goes on)?

Rating assigned to systems may change over the life of the contract. However, the rating classification system and associated definitions will not change.

7 Appendix 07 N/A N/A 63 What is the rationale for leaving CAIDA as NASA (NE) Sustaining?

See response to question 5.

COMET RFP No. 80KSC022R0004 Responses to Questions Received in Response to 2

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

8 Appendix 01 N/A N/A 3 Will the definitions of what is in each of the risk categories evolve and change over the life of the contract? (i.e. Things that are considered high risk and require NASA approval as you go could move to Medium or Low Risk as time goes on)

See response to question 6.

9 Attachment J-01

1.1.3 N/A 9 There is not a requirement that the contractor's Risk Management System and NASA's Risk Management System use a compatible scoring system to facilitate communication and risk elevation from one system to another. Is this intentional?

Yes. See also response to question 41 regarding Appendix 01.

10 Appendix J-

2.2.5 N/A 24 Logistics section does not cover procurement of vendor support services for replacement of failed equipment. Will this be a Government provided function?

No, this will not be a Government provided service. Refer to Attachment J-01 section 2.2.5.1.

11 Appendix 12 N/A N/A N/A Does COMET Purchasing responsibility include yearly licensing coverage? Or is it only new buys?

Purchasing responsibility includes the initial purchase and any annual licensing.

12 Attachment J-01

1.2 and 1.4 1.2.6 and 1.4.3 and

Do the requirements in the referenced PWS sections apply to the J-14 Firm-Fixed Price Work Unit Catalog content?

No.

13 Section L L.26 N/A 139 In an effort to allow bidders to deliver the most cost effective solutions, please consider removing the L.26 section specifically referring to manufacturers of flight hardware.

The solicitation will remain unchanged.

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

14 Appendix 12 N/A N/A N/A Does the incumbent contractor own the software? Does a new contractor have to purchase the software?

Yes, except for software where NASA is listed in the “Purchasing Responsibility” column. When NASA has purchasing responsibility, said software is Government owned. The Contractor shall be responsible for purchasing software in Appendix 12 where “COMET” is identified in the purchasing responsibility column. See response to question 11.

15 Attachment J-01

N/A N/A N/A Abort recovery is not incorporated in the draft PWS. Will that be part of the COMET requirements?

Abort recovery is not a COMET requirement.

16 Section L L.16 N/A 114 Will the Government be providing existing transition / phase out plans? If so, when?

The Test and Operations Support Contract (TOSC) phase out plan will be provided to the COMET Contractor during the COMET Phase in period.

17 N/A N/A N/A N/A Based on publicly available information, TOSC has had significant expenditure increases the last four years.

What has driven the increases?

For questions regarding the TOSC, please contact the TOSC Contracting Officer.

18 N/A N/A N/A N/A What is the average number of contract modifications and new task orders executed annually on TOSC? Is that level anticipated to continue on COMET?

For questions regarding the TOSC, please contact the TOSC Contracting Officer or visit https://www.fpds.gov.

The Government cannot anticipate the extent of modifications to be executed under COMET.

19 Section L L.21.2 (e)(1) 125 Offerors are instructed to include the requirements of DRD 2.1-1, Block 8 paragraphs b, and c. Block 8 of DRD 2.1-1 does not list paragraphs b or c - the numbering begins with paragraph f. Please specify which paragraphs of Block 8 in DRD 2.1-1 are paragraphs b and c.

The solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

20 N/A N/A N/A N/A Abort recovery is not incorporated in the draft PWS. Will that be part of the COMET requirements?

See response to question 15.

https://www.fpds.gov/

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21 Section J N/A N/A 81 Please provide Appendix 03 COMET detailed Manifest ASAP to facilite proposal preparation.

Appendix 03 COMET Manifest may be accessed via https://sam.gov under Notice ID NNK21ZMS001L.

22 Section L.21.2 N/A 123 Consider raising the BOE level to the third level PWS to facilitate estimation and review consistent with the L- 03+Basic+Cost+Price+Template.

The solicitation has been updated to clarify requirements for Basis of Estimates (BOEs).

23 Section L L.21.1 (f) 120 The Government limited the Total Compensation Plan to 10 pages (p. 116); however, in L.21.1(f), the Government requires mapping the TCP to all 178 labor categories.

Will the Government consider excluding the pages with labor mapping from the 10-page limit?

The solicitation has been updated to increase the page limit for total compensation plans.

24 Section L L.21.2 (b) 123 The Government requires BOEs be provided at the fourth level PWS number; however, if a PWS section has no labor categories mapped to it, is it the Government's intent that the offeror create a blank BOE?

No, refer to provision L.21.2 paragraph (b)(2).

25 Section L L.26 N/A 139 In an effort to allow bidders to deliver the most cost effective solutions, please consider removing the L.26 statement specifically referring to manufacturers of flight hardware.

The solicitation will remain unchanged.

26 Attachment J-01

5.5.5 5.5.5.5 65 See above, For off-nominal landings, what is scope of support for NASA rapid response team (i.e. single team used on multiple coasts, multiple teams, etc.)?

There is no requirement for a rapid response team.

27 Section J N/A N/A 81 Please provide Appendix 03 COMET detailed Manifest ASAP to facilite proposal preparation showing all LSP launches by year that are to be bid. Please clarify all launches that are to be bid by year and CLIN.

Refer to the LSP Manifest KSC Payload Facility Utilization Plan in the Bidders Library for more information.

https://sam.gov/

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

28 Section H H.6 N/A 38 Section H.6 states that personnel and/or facilities to be considered essential will be listed, but there are no personnel or facilities listed. Att J-19, Key Personnel and Facilities, is a placeholder. In order to give offerors sufficient time to identify the most qualified candidates, could the government provide a list of positions they may designate as key? Will the government require resumes for key personnel?

No, refer to provision L.21.1 paragraph (b)(2) for information regarding key positions. Additionally, the solicitation does not require identification of key personnel nor submission of resumes. Attachment J-19 will be updated during contract execution when key positions are filled. The solicitation will be updated to clarify.

29 Appendix 12 N/A N/A 4 Does the usage of software developed in foreign countries require special justification? (e.g. Dassault owned Catia)

Yes, refer to Attachment J-01, section 2.3.4.

30 Attachment J-03

C.4 N/A 8 Under "Existing Development and Operational Architecture" it states, "The COMET contractor may leverage the existing architecture for use within the MIS, make modifications, or develop a new architecture." Does this mean all existing interfaces, reporting tools, etc. will be available for the COMET contractor, or are some aspects proprietary to the existing TOSC contractor?

What are the tools and interfaces that will be provided?

All of the TOSC interface software is government owned.

For tools and interfaces, review the Existing TIPS Architecture diagram in Attachment J-03, and the software applications listed in Appendix 12. The TOSC financial reporting system tool will not be provided.

31 Attachment J-03

B N/A 2 Attachment J-03 states "The contractor shall utilize a data center for the MIS solution as identified in Appendix 13, Government-Furnished Services for on-site housing of the MIS." Does the government expect the MIS to be hosted primarily on a government network in addition to being housed on government hardware?

Yes, the Management Information System (MIS) shall be hosted on a Government network and housed on Government hardware.

32 Appendix 12 N/A N/A N/A What is the classification of data that need to be migrated?

Appendix 12 has been updated to clarify.

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33 Attachment J-03

C.4 N/A 9 What is the Configuration Accounting and Verification (CAV) tool? Is it an existing tool and will the contractor be provided with the tool?

CAV tracks flight hardware and approved modifications from OEMs. CAV is an existing tool. See response to question 11.

34 Attachment J-03

B N/A 3 What features of the MIS need to be compatible with a mobile electronic device? What constitutes a mobile electronic device (smartphone, tablet, laptop)?

Mobile electronic device compatibility is not limited to features. The solicitation has been updated to define the term, “mobile electronic device.”

35 Section L L.20 (b)(7) 117 Since electronic files can easily be viewed at >100% resolution, would the government consider revising the permissible font size for non-standard text to 8 point, enabling offerors to provide more granular information?

No, the solicitation will remain unchanged.

36 Section L L.21.2 (b) 123 Are BOEs required for each Fixed Price Work Unit? No, BOE's are not required for fixed price work units.

Refer to provision L.21.2 paragraph (b)(1).

37 Attachment J-14

N/A N/A N/A Do Fixed Price Work Units represent marginal costs (i.e.

above and beyond the core base work performed on CLIN 01)?

Task orders issued against CLIN 0003 using the fixed price work units will not be in support of CLIN 0001 requirements.

38 Attachment J-14

N/A N/A N/A Required direct labor for each Work Unit is variable relative to sized and scope of the assigned task (i.e.

handling a core stage is significantly different than a booster forward assembly). How should bidders address the variability of size and scope per task?

The solicitation has been revised to clarify.

39 N/A N/A N/A N/A Are there any known slips in the February RFP release date and will the 30 day turn for a proposal remain firm?

Refer to the solicitation provision L.17.

40 N/A N/A N/A N/A Can you please confirm if EVMS is required and to what extent?

An Earned Value Management System (EVMS) is not required.

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41 Appendix 01 N/A N/A N/A Will the Insight-Oversight document be updated/changed at RFP release?

The solicitation has been updated to remove Appendix 01.

The EGS Insight-Oversight document is for information purposes only and has been uploaded to the Bidders Library.

42 Appendix 01 Oversight N/A 5 Will final RFP provide copy of current/new EGS Risk Engagement Matrix?

See response to question 41.

43 Appendix 01 Oversight N/A 5 "The OPR will manage all aspects of the requirements through closure and CoFR" Does this mean that NASA EGS has both the authority AND accountability for executing and meeting requirements managed through DDT&E and prior to transition to the contractor as OPR?

The COMET effort to the OPR is support services only through DDT&E? For example, the COMET contractor will support the NASA OPR, during DDT&E, with procedure writing, test and operations, processing test readiness, etc.

See response to question 41.

44 Appendix 01 Oversight N/A 5 To clarify, is it correct that contractor OPR responsibilities may include performing activities maintained on the EGS Risk Engagement Matrix and for which NASA has the final approval authority?

See response to question 41.

45 Appendix 01 Oversight Item 10 7 Would the Government define SAR and PFAR in the glossary?

See response to question 41. Definitions for System Acceptance Review (SAR) and Post-Flight Assessment Review (PFAR) have been added to the EGS Insight- Oversight document.

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46 Appendix 02 N/A N/A N/A Appendix 02 consist of the title page only, numbered Page 1 of 21. Would the Government provide the list of compliance and reference documents for the COMET contract?

The solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

47 Appendix 12 N/A N/A 12 and

Are the tables appearing on pages 12 and 13 columns of the same table identifying the NEST core software package?

The solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

48 Appendix 13 Kennedy Data Center

KIAC 4 Can the Government add to the bidders library additional and specific details regarding the Government-furnished KDC hosting and housing services?

Yes, additional information has been added to the Bidders Library.

49 Appendix 13 Application Development and Support

KIAC 4 Can the Government add to the bidders library additional and specific details regarding the Government-furnished SAAS, software development, and PAAS services?

See response to question 48.

50 Attachment J-01

1.0 and 1.1 1.1.0.4 5 Please confirm that COMET is only in support of KSC related launches

Refer to Attachment J-01, section 1.0.1 and 1.0.2, and the clause, Place of Performance, at F.3 of the solicitation.

51 Attachment J-01

1.1 1.1.0.5 6 This DRD is to follow the EGS Insight Plan/Oversight Plan. Is there any expected change to this plan between now and RFP and/or between RFP and Award?

See response to question 41. The Government will communicate changes, if any, after award.

52 Attachment J-01

1.1 1.1.1.2 7 How will the Customer advise the contractor on multiple requirements from different customer elements or programs?

Refer to Attachment J-01, section 1.1.0.4. Additionally, Attachment J-01 and the respective other contract attachments identify the contract requirements for all customer elements and programs.

53 Attachment J-01

2.1 2.1.1.1.3 15 Are the Artemis II hazards baselined, if so, when will they be available to the contractor? If not, are they planning on being baselined prior to COMET Award?

The Artemis II hazard reports are in work and will be completed by the Government and turned over to the Contractor after award.

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54 Attachment J-01

2.1.2 Quality 2.1.2.2.1 20 Is this Government approval different than the EGS Insight/Oversight Plan?

Yes, Government approval will be in accordance with requirements specified in the solicitation. See response to question 41.

55 Attachment J-01

2.1 2.1.2.4 21 1. Should the section title be: "ISS and Artemis Quality Engineering and Assurance Activities" or should the title simply be: "Quality Engineering and Assurance Activities" to take into account ISS, Artemis and any other customer that may be supported under COMET? 2.

Should the first sentence add a reference to Artemis or should the reference to ISS be removed to take into account ISS, Artemis and any other customer that may be supported under COMET? 3. If other programs besides ISS are supported within this section, does the COMET PRACA system need to interface with any OEM PRACA systems and if so, to what extent? 4. Recommended additions to the bulleted list (if Artemis is to be supported:

Performing quality engineering and mission assurance activities for Artemis payloads prior to integration into the Artemis Elements including, Gateway, Landers & Surface Modules for assembly flights and TBD Artemis Ground Checkout Unit for resupply flights.

No, Attachment J-01, section 2.1.2.4 is ISS specific and outlines additional Quality Assurance and Engineering tasks to support ISS and ISS payload processing. Artemis and other Program support requirements are annotated throughout section 2.1.2 and Attachment J-01. The COMET Problem Reporting and Corrective Action (PRACA) system does not need to interface with any OEM PRACA systems.

56 Attachment J-01

2.1.3 N/A 21 Paragraph 2.1.3 includes reference to NASA-STD-

8739.8, NASA Software Assurance and Software Safety Standard How will the Government address conflicts betwee this NASA STD and the EGS Insight/Oversight Plan both for Government activities and contractor activities?

See response to question 41. Based on the response to question 41, in the event of a conflict, NASA-STD-

8739.8 shall take precedence.

57 Attachment J-01

2.2.2 2.2.2.2 23 Is this effort for Ground Systems only for for Flight/ Ground/ Interface Systems?

The solicitation has been updated to clarify.

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58 Attachment J-01

2.2.3 2.3.3.3 23 Please confirm that logistics support is for more than just

ISS

Yes, depot level repair and maintenance capability in the NASA Spacecraft Services Depot is not limited to only the ISS Program. The solicitation has been revised to clarify.

59 Attachment J-01

2.2.3 2.2.3.4 23 Paragraph 2.2.3.4 Appears to be missing from the document. Please confirm this omission was intentional

See response to question 1.

60 Attachment J-01

2.2.5 2.2.5.1 24 Please clarify if the logistic operations is to include only EGS facilities, systems, equipment, and spares or does it also include flight hardware. If flight hardware logistics support is not a function of COMET, please clarify who maintains logistics support for flight hardware once it arrives at KSC, specifically if the OEM ships loose hardware

Refer to Attachment J-01, section 2.2.5.15.

61 Attachment J-01

2.2.7 2.2.7.1 31 It appears that Appendix 15, NASA-furnished Vehicles doesn't provide total vehicles needed or which portion is the contractor's responsibility. We request that the Government provide more details in Appendix 15

Refer to the “GSA Vehicles with Mods Reference List” file in the Informational Materials section of the Bidders Library.

62 Attachment J-01

2.2.5 2.2.5.15 26 This Government approval process does not appear in the EGS Insight/Oversight Plan. Is this approval process the same through all CLIN's?

See response to question 41. There is no documented or formal approval process for equipment procured under Attachment J-01, Section 2.2.5.15. The contractor shall seek approval as required.

63 Attachment J-01

2.3.3 2.3.3.1 29 Is there a DRD associated with this activity, and a timeframe to complete this assessment and disposition?

Refer to Attachment J-02, DRD 2.3-1.

64 Attachment J-01

3.2.0 3.2.0.1 37 Will there be a integration of the Government and Contractor responsibilities between NPR 7123.1, the SEMP and the EGS Insight/Oversight Plan?

The solicitation has been updated to clarify. See response to question 41.

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65 Attachment J-01

5.0 5.0.4 44 Is there a defined list of OEM level work at this time? If so, can that list be provided?

Yes, refer to the “OEM Participation in Ground Processing” file in the Bidders Library.

66 Attachment J-01

5.1 5.1.2.7 46 Is this Government - provided tool available at contract award, and is it a Legacy System to be used for this purpose?

Yes, the Government-provided tool, the Automated Support Requirements System (ASRS), is available at contract award. The ASRS is a legacy system and is listed in Appendix 12 COMET Managed Application.

67 Attachment J-01

5.5 5.5.1.3 46 Is there any anticipated change in scope for any areas of

5.5 through of of the different CLINs?

No.

68 Attachment J-01

5.5.4 5.5.4.1 63 and

We have not identified the document GSDO-PLN-1129, Cross-Program Integrated Launch Operations Implementation Plan. Will the Government provide access to "GSDO-PLN-1129, Cross-Program Integrated Launch Operations Implementation Plan"?

The document has been added to the Bidders Library.

69 Attachment J-03

C. 2. 5 Several of the acronyms in the Negotiated Estimated Cost (NEC) formula are not defined or located in the glossary.

Would the Government define UCA, SVUCA, SVB.8 and

SVCV?

The solicitation has been updated to clarify.

70 Attachment J-03

4. Existing

TIPS

Architecture diagram

9 Would the Government confirm that Design Engineering is associated with the ProE / Windchill tool?

Yes, the existing TIPS Architecture diagram has been updated to clarify.

71 Attachment J-15

N/A N/A N/A Attachment J-15, Fixed Price Work Unit Schedule, is a duplicate of Attachment J-14, Fixed Price Work Unit.

Will the Government provide J-15?

Yes, Attachment J-15 was uploaded to https://sam.gov on January 6, 2021, under Notice ID NNK21ZMS001L.

https://sam.gov/

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72 Section L L.20 Paragraph (a)

116 Please clarify that the page limit of 125 pages for Volume I does not included the page counts identified for those requirements being responded to in Volume IV

The solicitation has been updated to clarify.

73 Section L L.21.1 (d)(2) 120 Is the requirement "The offeror shall describe the IT architecture, approach to interoperability with Government systems" missing an additional requirement, or the words ", and it's …." following the comma?

The solicitation has been updated to clarify.

74 Section L L.21.1 (c), (e), and (f)

118 Section L.21 states that Volume I Mission Suitability Management Approach includes (c) COMET Insight Approach: Offeror shall provide its insight plan…; (e) Contract Phase-In: Offeror shall submit a phase-in plan… ; and (f) Total Compensation Plan. However, Section L.20 states that Volume IV Plans and Other Data contains the Contractor’s COMET Insight Plan; the Phase-in Plan and the Total Compensation Plans. Please confirm that it is allowable to cross reference from Volume I to Volume

IV

The solicitation has been updated to clarify.

75 Section L L.21.2 (b) 123 Section L.21 states that Volume I Mission Suitability Technical Approach includes (b) Basis of Estimate (BOE). However, Section L.20 states that Volume IV Plans and Other Data contains the Basis of Estimate (BOE). Please confirm that it is allowable to cross reference from Volume I to Volume IV

The solicitation has been updated to clarify.

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76 Section L L.21.2 (b) 123 Does NASA intend to provide COMET Forecast work load data for all PWS elements down to the 4th level?

Alternatively, the Government could provide a Government Resource Estimate, which offers would allocate a proposed skill/level mix against for evaluation purposes. We recommend the GRE be used for comparative pricing; hence, all offerors would be required to bid the same GRE unchanged.

No, the Government will not provide workload data for all PWS elements down to the fourth level, nor a Government resource estimate. The solicitation has been updated to clarify requirements for Basis of Estimates.

77 Section L L.22 (a) 128 This section states, "A major subcontractor, as used in this provision, is a subcontractor that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement." Will the Government please provide a more specific description of a major subcontractor with metrics such as annual subcontract $ value or % of TCV? We recommend aligning this with the Cost Volume description of a major subcontractor (e.g., 20% TCV).

No, the solicitation will remain unchanged. It is the responsibility of the offeror to determine whether work assigned to a subcontractor is major or critical.

78 Section L L.24 N/A 138 Will you please confirm whether or not the documents provided in L.20(a) on page 116 of 153 a comprehensive listing of all the plans and data required in this volume?

Yes, refer to provision L.20 for a listing of plans and data associated with Volume IV Plans and Other Data.

79 Section L L.21.1 (a)(7) 119 Will you provide a full listing of the "KSC institutional service contractors" that the COMET contractor will be working with?

No, provision L.21.1 paragraph (a)(7) has been updated to remove the reference to "KSC institutional service contractors."

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80 Section L L.22 (d)(12) 130 This section asks for the bidder to "Submit additional information (within page limits and time period notated above) if such information is necessary to establish a record of relevant performance". Can you clarify what other information you are specifically asking for? Is it appropriate to think if a contractor has provided all other information that a "record of relevant performance" is already established?

No further information will be provided. It is the responsibility of the offeror to determine if any additional information is necessary to establish a record of relevant performance.

81 Attachment J-02

2.1-2 Block 8 45 Section L requires response to paragraphs B and C of the subject Data Requirement. However, the paragraph labels appear to be missing from page 45. Would the Government please add the paragraph labels to ensure offeror's respond to the correct requirements in their response?

See response to question 19.

82 Section L L.21.1 (c);(e);(f) 119 The Government requires the submission of the COMET Insight Plan, Contract Phase-In Plan, and Total Compensation Plan within the Management Approach requirements; however, in paragraph L.20(a)the plans are shown in Volume IV Plans and Other Data with separate page limitations. Would the Government please confirm that a reference to the plans located in Volume IV is a sufficient response to be evaluated within Mission Suitability and that information does not need to be duplicated in both volumes?

The solicitation been updated to clarify.

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83 Attachment J-01

N/A N/A N/A We noticed that there are some specific scope areas (e.g., TPSF and LETF) that are performed on TOSC today that are not listed as part of the COMET scope. We understand that the LETF work could move under LASSO. Can you explain your rationale for the TPSF piece? That work seems to align very well with the COMET Fixed Price Catalog goals that you have, so it is odd to see that scope is not included.

There are no requirements under this solicitation for operations or maintenance within the Thermal Protection System Facility (TPSF).

84 Section L L.21.2 (b)(8) 124 For the BOE requirement, Section L.21.2(b)(8) states, " If there is no experience or history of performing same or similar tasks, technical or engineering estimates are acceptable, but should have sufficient detail to allow an evaluator to completely understand how the technical or engineering estimate was derived." We recommend the Government specify the type of detail you deem to be sufficient. As an option we recommend the Government specify that offerors with no experience or history performing the same or similar tasks as a part of the estimating methodology shall identify the model/tool used (name and version) to develop their estimate and provide a copy of all the model inputs and default values used, the rationale for setting input parameters, and the model-generated outputs projecting staffing and schedule.

The solicitation will remain unchanged. It is the responsibility of the offeror to propose an approach that demonstrates it understands and has the ability to meet requirements including full explanations of the resources necessary to perform as proposed.

85 Section H H.5 (a) 37 H.5 section (a) states , "Of the total price of CLIN 003, the sum of see Attachment J-18, Contract Schedule Tables, Error! Reference source not found., is presently available for payment and allotted to this contract." Will the Government provide the limitation of funds value for

CLIN 003.

The solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

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86 N/A N/A N/A N/A Reserved Reserved

87 Appendices 12 and 13

N/A N/A N/A There appears to be a conflict between who provides Maximo. Does COMET buy Maximo as indicated in Appendix 12 or does NASA provide it through KIAC as indicated in Appendix 13?

The solicitation has been updated to correct the error.

88 Appendix 12 N/A N/A 8 What version of Maximo is in use on TOSC? Version 7.5.0.9.

89 Appendix 12 N/A N/A 8 What is the mobile application used for Maximo? Maximo mobile.

90 Section L L.21.2 (e) 125 NASA requests DRD block 8, para B and C completed, but there are no paragraphs listed B and C; F is the first letter, please clarify

See response to question 19.

91 Section L L.23.2 (f) 135 The DRFP lists 10 paid holidays; in reference to enhancing diversity and inclusion, does Freedom Day (Juneteenth) count as a federal holiday?

The draft solicitation does not identify paid holidays. A listing of federal holidays may be found at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/.

92 Section L L.22 ( c ) 129 NASA mentioned "Major Subcontractors" but did not define the percentage of work share; however, a "Major Subcontractor" is defined in the Price volume - are bidders to use the same definition of a "Major Subcontractor" for Past Performance as defined in Price?

No. The solicitation will be updated to clarify. See also the response to question 77.

93 Section B B.6 (f) 10 Ask for Task Plans if not provided Task plans are subject to a request for task plan and pertain to issuance of a task order. Task orders are not contemplated prior to award; therefore, a request for task cannot be provided.

94 Section L L.21.2 (e) 125 Can NASA provide a current copy of the Health and Safety Plan used on the current contract?

No, a copy of the Health and Safety Plan used on the TOSC will not be provided.

https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

95 Attachment L-07

N/A N/A N/A Can NASA provide a list of positions considered "key" on the current contract?

See response to question 28.

96 Section L L.21.2 (e) 125 Procedure KNPR 8715.3-1_COMET, KSC Safety Procedural Requirements for the Consolidated Operations, Management, Engineering, and Test (COMET) Contract (referenced in DRD 2.1-1) does not appear to be included with the draft, can NASA provide this?

See response to question 4.

97 Section L L.21.2 (e) 125 Procedure KNPR 8715.3-1, KSC Safety Procedural Requirements Volume 1, Safety Procedural Requirements for Civil Servants/NASA Contractors Rev B does not appear to be included with the draft, can NASA provide this?

See response to question 4.

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

98 Section B B.8 N/A 11 Section B8 – In paragraph (a) , the language states that the Contractor “shall not receive an equitable adjustment to estimated cost or fee of this contract for any change… when the estimated cost of the change is less than or equal to the thresholds. In Paragraph B , it is not clear if there is a less than threshold set. The language states “ … if the net aggregate cost of all events estimated to have a cost impact of $650,000 or less reaches $5 M within any contract year, then the foregoing limitation on equitable adjustments shall not apply to any events occurring after the $5M amount is reached. Is the language intended to state that an annual equitable adjustment cost proposal between $650K and $5M will not be allowed? Can you please clarify what the annual minimum and maximum thresholds are which are applicable to the limitations on equitable adjustments ? Additionally can you please reference if there is a NASA supplement or deviation that is superseding the FAR changes clause?

An annual equitable adjustment cost proposal is not applicable to changes subject to clause B.8 Special Provisions Regarding Contract Adjustments. Changes with estimated values of $650,000 or less are subject to clause until such time as the net aggregate cost of all changes issued under the clause reaches $5 million. Once this threshold is reached, then subsequent changes, regardless of dollar amount, will be negotiated and will be subject to an equitable adjustment to the estimated cost and fee. Subject to provision L.25, the offeror agrees to waive its right to an adjustment under the Changes clause for changes subject to clause B.8. Authorized deviations to FAR clauses are annotated in accordance with FAR 52.252-6 Authorized Deviations in Clauses at section I.16.

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99 Section B B.9 N/A 12 Section B9- Based upon the below language in the DRFP can you please confirm that if the contract expires and the follow on contract is subsequently awarded to a different company or the expected follow on business is not funded, that severance pay will be unallowable for all the employees who will be terminated? If so, is that language in the NASA FAR supplement? If it is not, do you have a FAR deviation?

This section states that “Any severance payment in addition to regular salaries and wages that is made of as a result of or in connection with the expiration of: any basic, option, or extended period of contract or task order performance shall be an unallowable cost. Any termination effective within 60 days of contract or task order expiration shall be presumed to be a result of or in connection with such expiration.

(ii) Any notice of termination issued to an employee less than 90 days before or after the natural expiration of a contract, contract option period, extended period of contract performance, or task order shall be presumed to be as a result of or in connection with such expiration, and therefore is not an involuntary termination.

(iii) Any Notice of termination issued more than 90 days before or after a natural expiration of a contract, contract option period, extended period of contract performance, or task order are not presumed to be as a result of involuntary termination. The Contracting Officer will evaluate the allowability of payments made under such circumstances on a case-by-case basis.

Contract expiration is a foreseeable event of which all parties are aware and does not result in involuntary termination of employment. Therefore, as provided in provision B.9, paragraph (c), "termination of employment related to contract or task order expiration shall not be considered to be an involuntary termination or abnormal or mass severance as used in FAR 31.205-6(g)." If a follow-on contract is subsequently awarded and terminated (i.e., due to a lack of funding), then severance under the follow-on contract would be allowable, presuming the contract was subject to the requirements of clause B.9 paragraph (c). A deviation from FAR 31.205- 6(g) is not required. Clause B.9 has been updated to remove paragraphs (c)(1) and (2).

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

100 N/A N/A N/A N/A How will the COMET Logistics requirement mesh with the current KSC Logistics/Base Operations Support Contract and, in the future, the Agency Logistics Support Services (ALSS)?

For logistics, the COMET contractor will interact with the Base Operations Contractor as identified in the PWS and in Appendix 13, Government Furnished Services.

Requirements associated with a future ALSS contractor, if any, will be addressed during contract performance.

101 N/A N/A N/A N/A Is the Small Business requirement determined yet? What will be the percentages for each of the socio economic categories? Will the SB “requirement” be a goal or a requirement, meaning measured in a specific time frame (quarterly, annually)? Will the level of achievement of the SB requirements be a factor in the CPAR rating, award fee, etc.?

Refer to provision L.21.3 paragraph (b) and FAR 52.219- 9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan—Alternate II, regarding small business subcontracting. Additionally, refer to Attachment J-06, Award and Incentive Fee Plan, regarding performance evaluations.

102 N/A N/A N/A N/A Will you allow role up for socio economic categories?

For instance, if a company holds 8(a), women owned, small disadvantaged business, will that company satisfy all the categories with the percentage for SB requirement being cumulative for all three categories?

Yes.

103 N/A N/A N/A N/A Is consideration given to Small Business Mentor Protégé as a stand-alone SB category?

No, refer to provision L.21.3 paragraph (b)(2).

104 N/A N/A N/A N/A Will all management of PWS elements have to be held at the Prime Contractor level? If not, at what level in the PWS requirements can a subcontractor hold oversight/management responsibility?

Provision L.21.1, Management Approach, is at the discretion of the offeror. It is the responsibility of prospective offerors to propose an approach that reflects a clear understanding of requirements and how to effectively and efficiently accomplish those requirements.

105 N/A N/A N/A N/A What will be used for validation of Past Performance?

(CPARS, PPQS, etc.)

Refer to provision M.4 paragraph (f).

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

106 N/A N/A N/A N/A IF CPARS are used what rating will be the benchmark for acceptable?

Evaluation ratings and definitions used in Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) evaluation reports are in accordance FAR Table 42-1 or Table 42-2.

107 N/A N/A N/A N/A What safety rating(s) will be used for evaluation/assessment?

Refer to provision M.4.

108 N/A N/A N/A N/A The government is requesting proposals that allow insight verses oversight and use of industry best practices. The list of government documents provided on the shared drive appear to be more "oversight" type requirements.

Will the list of government documents be considered advisory or mandatory in the proposal and performance of the work?

Refer to Appendix 02.

109 N/A N/A N/A N/A This contract will be critical to the successful performance of OM&S Operations at KSC for years to come in an era of the Space Launch System Program yet the timeline for the procurement appears to be very compressed. Will the government consider providing more time for the procurement that would allow contractors an opportunity to provide a more comprehensive look at applying industry best practices to their proposals?

Yes, refer to provision L.18.

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

110 N/A N/A N/A N/A There are very few companies that excplict experience in processing payloads and stacking complex launch vehicles. However, there are companies like [redacted] who have extensive experience in assembling complex rocket systems with state of the art guidance and conduction firing/launch procedures in testing and certifying those missile systems. Please describe how the government would evaluate this type of extrapolated experience?

Refer to provisions L.22 and M.4.

111 N/A N/A N/A N/A Given the nature of the future EPOC contract and its likely bidders, will the government consider exclude launch vehicle OEMs from the COMET competition?

The Government will consider potential and actual organizational conflicts of interest in accordance with provision L.26. Refer to provision L.26 for a description of potential conflicts; responsibilities of the offeror in preparing its proposal; and the Government's evaluation.

112 N/A N/A N/A N/A Would a launch vehicle provider that operates their vehicle(s) from KSC be considered in an Organization Conflict of Interest in proposing for the COMET contract? Are their OCI issues for the exploration OEMS bidding as either a prime or subcontractor on COMET?

No, operation of a launch vehicle from KSC does not necessarily create a conflicting role that might bias the contractor's judgment. Refer to the Government's response to question 111 regarding organizational conflicts of interest arising from existing NASA Exploration Systems Development contracts.

113 N/A N/A N/A N/A The government has stated that the staffing approach is important in the technical evaluation. Is the government open to industry best practices in cross-training and cross-utilization of personal as methodology for efficient labor resource management?

Refer to Attachment J-01, section 1.1.0.2 and solicitation provision L.21.2 paragraph (a).

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114 N/A N/A N/A N/A Is any of the work scope on COMET expected to be re-allocated to EPOC when EPOC is awarded? If so, what scope would the government envision being re-allocated?

No. Refer to the Bidder's Library for information regarding the planned Exploration Production and Operations Contract (EPOC) procurement and associated ground rules and assumptions.

115 N/A N/A N/A N/A It appears that the COMET contractor will be handling vehicles and payloads provided by OEMs. Can the government characterize to point of handover of hardware and accountability for vehicles and payloads?

Refer to Attachment J-01, sections 5.5.1 Space Launch System Offline Processing and 5.5.2 Spacecraft Offline Processing.

116 N/A N/A N/A N/A We understand that industry accountability is critical to this contract especially operating with government insight verses oversight? What type of measures or evaluations will the government use to ensure that their contractor is accountable?

The Government will ensure Contractor accountability through information, measures and metrics obtained through DRD 1.1-1, Contractor's COMET Insight Plan;

DRD 1.1-2 , Metrics Plan and Report; and Attachment J- 06 Award and Incentive Fee Plan, Enclosure I: Objective Criteria - Technical Performance Measures.

117 N/A N/A N/A N/A What is the governments biggest concern in the acquisition of the COMET contract?

Refer to Sections L and M of the solicitation.

118 N/A N/A N/A N/A Will an attendee list for the bus/walking tour be published on sam.gov

No.

119 N/A N/A N/A N/A Are items that the COMET contractor will be responsible for all barcode tagged for easy inventory?

Yes, items in Appendix 10 (for which the COMET contractor is accountable) are barcoded as applicable.

When barcoding is not feasible, items are "virtually tagged" as defined in KNPR 4000.1

120 N/A N/A N/A N/A How many buildings does the COMET contractor have security responsibility for? Which buildings?

Attachment J-01 and Appendix 05 have been updated to clarify.

121 N/A N/A N/A N/A Is it a transition requirement to inventory all the parts, supplies, equipment etc. in the LCC?

No. Refer to solicitation provision L.21.1(e)(iv).

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

122 Section L L.23.2 (f)(5) 135 Regarding the requirement to identify all proposed positions subject to or exempt from the Services Contract Act (SCA) and any applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Also will the Government provide CBA demographic data to allow a non incumbent the opportunity to model the Productive Time and Benefits?

Or would the Government provide a range of employment/seniority dates?

Refer to the Bidders Library for demographic data.

123 Attachment J-01

2.2.3 2.2.3.2 23 It appears that shop/labs consolidation is an expectation.

Is there data on previous studies that have been conducted regarding shop and facilities consolidations that the Government could share?

No.

124 N/A N/A N/A N/A Is the Government going to provide CBA's demographic data to allow a non-incumbent the opportunity to model the Productive Time and Benefits? Or would the Government provide a range of employment/seniority dates?

See response to question 61.

125 Section L L.6 (a) 108 Please describe or clarify the Government's position on maintaining current compensation practices with the high emphasis in the draft RFP without meaningfully reducing those expectations or quantity of work.

Refer to solicitation provisions L.6, L.10, and L.21.1 paragraph (f). Further elaboration or clarification will not be provided. There is no correlation regarding the quantity of work and the requirements of FAR 52.222-46 regarding proper and fair compensation for professional employees.

126 Section L L.21.2 (a) 121 Please provide the expected Government staffing organization and size so that we can meaningfully propose a plan that uses the strengths of and augments the perceived weaknesses of the government staffing.

It is the responsibility of the offeror to propose an approach that demonstrates it understands and has the ability to meet requirements.

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127 Section H H.6 N/A 38 The key personnel and/or facilities are not listed below or in Att J-19. Is it the Offeror responsibility to determine this information?

See response to question 28.

128 Section L L.6 (b) 108 The RFP states that compensation levels lower than the predecessor may indicate a lack of understanding. Will the Government provide current compensation.

Wage rate and fringe benefits for wage determinations based on prevailing rates and collective bargaining agreements can be found in Attachments J-09 and J-10, and the Bidders Library respectively. Compensation levels for professional employees will not be provided. It is the offeror's responsibility to propose proper and fair compensation for professional employees.

129 Section M M.5 (c)(1) 153 M5 Cost Factor - The Government will evaluate the Phase-In (if proposed) as part of the overall Price. The incumbent will have a significant advantage. Will the Government consider evaluation the approach, but not the FFP cost because the incumbent will bid $0.

No, the solicitation remains unchanged.

130 Section L L.23.2 (c) 134 How would a non-incumbent offeror estimate the level of effort associated with each PWS element in Attachment L-03, Basic Cost Price Template (BCPT) without knowing the current level of effort; quantities and schedules associated with each PWS area? A lack of resource realism may adversely affect the offeror's Mission Suitability score and result in cost realism adjustments under the Cost factor.

See response to question 126 and provision L.23.1 paragraph (b)(1).

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No. DRFP Area Section Paragraph Page Question Disposition

131 Section L L.22 (a) 128 A major subcontractor, as used in this provision, is a subcontractor that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement. Does the Government intend for the Offeror to determine what is major or critical or is there specific criteria/threshold that the Subcontractor needs to meet to be considered major?

See response to question 77.

132 Section L L.16 N/A 114 The RFP proscribes a Phase-in period NTE 45 days (section L.16). Considering the complexity and criticality of the COMET mission, as well as the volume of personnel to hire – it would seem that a 45 day Phase-in…