SATPC0034979 Tab 04 4 SOW.pdf

Statement of Work

MSFC is seeking a vendor to modify, integrate, and support testing by developing and operating a ground sample processing, preparation, and fill system for the low temperature solidification of Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO). This effort shall include determination of the scope and resources estimate required for implementing an investigation in microgravity as a MaRVIn-based payload for possible flight operations aboard the ISS.

Support will be provided to support a System Requirements Review (SRR) level review at the end of the period of performance.

The ground support system to be developed shall allow assessment of a derivative version of the sample filling subsystem developed for the recent MaRVIn-PCIM payload. This shall include assessment and demonstration of an approach for hermetically sealing sample cuvettes as part of the fluid loading procedure. This shall also involve interfacing the filling apparatus with a vacuum system with an optional gas backfill capability. In this manner, the system shall minimize contamination by particulate debris while also providing removal of unwanted gases in the sample fluid such as ambient air.

The scope of this work is to further include support of design and development activities pertinent to custom instrumentation, specialized jigs, and fixtures pursuant to the modification of the required sample preparation and loading capabilities.

Tasks will include:

• Support gradient freeze processing of square profile quartz or sapphire cuvettes with 3.0mm ID, 5.5mm OD, and variable length in the range of 42 to 75mm.

• Modify an existing spare MaRVIn spare Science Tray Assembly (STA) housing to accomplish the sample processing activities.

• The system shall provide at least two (2) thermally conditioned blocks with user selectable setpoints in the range of -10°C to 45°C that will accept the sample cuvettes described above.

• The system shall provide the ability to image a central portion of the sample cuvette of length between 10mm to 25mm within a central “gradient zone”, and variable magnification levels with panning field of view.

• The imaging system shall support the assessment of various locations, orientations, and intensities of illumination options to optimize observations of the crystal growth structure and features such as optional tracking particles.

• The thermal gradient system shall provide freezing and melting capability of the sample fluid at opposing ends of the cuvette per the gradient zone dimensions described above.

• Characterization of the thermal profile within (preferred) and/or on the exterior of processed cuvettes under various setpoints of the thermal conditioning blocks.

• Integrating the existing MaRVIn-PCIM “filling station” components with modified vacuum and gas backfill system to support cuvette filling needs. This may include backfill with Helium and/or Nitrogen or other inert gas and methods to hold the cuvette in place with jigs/fixtures.

• Optionally supporting sample fill operations of cuvettes to be delivered to the Project Scientists and/or Principal Investigators for CASTing investigations at locations other than at TMI facilities.

• Evaluating filled sample performance on the ground unit MaRVIn STA in terms of the overall thermal dissipation capability to maintain setpoints using the breadboard gradient freeze system.

• Performing resources estimation for future development of the aforementioned elements into a flight capable payload aboard the ISS or alternate microgravity vehicle.

Deliverables and Milestone Dates:

Mid-term report documenting developed system, capabilities and detailing task plan for the remainder of the task.

Memos documenting completion and progress of each phase of the project.

Period of Performance (POP):

The POP for this effort is three (3) months from Authorization to Proceed (ATP).