A_(Tab_10)_Single_Source-Brand_Name_Justification_Flightglobal_SpaceTrak.pdf

AFNWC/PZIA

28 Jan 12

SOLE SOURCE TEMPLATE

[For Simplified Acquisitions IAW AFFARS IG5313.106-1(b)(3)]

1. DESCRIPTION OF THE SUPPLIES/SERVICES REQUIRED

This will be a contract to acquire a one-year, single seat subscription to the Flightglobal Ascend SpaceTrak database. The SpaceTrak database is a compilation of news reports and other public information about every launch and spacecraft in the history of human spaceflight. The database is sorted and searchable, creating a powerful tool to look for trends in spacecraft and space launch vehicle anomalies and accidents.

2. JUSTIFICATION FOR SOLICITING FROM A SINGLE SOURCE

Flightglobal is the only vendor with a publicly available database of satellite anomalies and effects.

This database is uniquely compiled from publicly available records to describe every launch, orbit, and spacecraft with mission descriptions, accomplishments, and anomalies from the dawn of the space age to the present day. Most comparable databases limit themselves to one aspect of the space enterprise, typically only launches. The SpaceTrak database uniquely combines all aspects for a comprehensive understanding that is suitable for additional scientific research. For AFRL to compile its own database would be a massive undertaking requiring approximately a dozen people full time for at least a year (estimated to be at least $1.5M), with access to multiple other specialized private news databases and other records. Additionally, once compiled, maintaining the database would require several full-time personnel with continuing access to the private databases at substantial cost, estimated at $250k/yr.

3. EFFORTS TO OBTAIN COMPETITION

Government and private database capabilities and contents were queried through direct requests, web searches, and private communication with other researchers, but none had the comprehensiveness, timespan, or detail that would allow accurate reporting of anomalies required by AFRL/RVBXR.

4. STEPS TO PRECLUDE FUTURE SINGLE SOURCE AWARDS

Future requirements to obtain access to a comprehensive public anomaly database will include a comprehensive survey of providers that may have access to similar information, such as The Aerospace Corporation, NASA, major spacecraft operators, as well as spacecraft insurance companies. Queries among other academics will be made to discover any alternate sources that may have arisen. Additional web searches will be used to ensure no similar databases exist that report the same information.

AFNWC/PZIA

28 Jan 12

5. CONTRACTING OFFICER’S DETERMINATION

I have determined, in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), that the circumstances of this contract action deem only a single source is reasonably available.

Contracting Officer: Tsgt Joseph Carrizales, AFNWC/PZIA Date: ____________________

6. TECHNICAL/REQUIREMENTS PERSONNEL’S CERTIFICATIONS

I have certified, in accordance with FAR 6.303-2(c), that supporting data contained wherein is both accurate and complete.

Technical/Requirements Personnel: Adrian Wheelock, Program Manager, Space Particle Hazards Program, AFRL/RVBXR Date:20130718