Build and install sonde

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Office of Acquisitions and Grants is seeking a contractor to build and install a specialized seismic sonde for deployment in the San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth (SAFOD) scientific research drill hole. The solicitation requires manufacturing a 2.5-inch diameter instrument with four geophones, three stainless steel tubes containing optical fibers, and a high-pressure leak-proof housing capable of operating in extreme temperature and pressure conditions. Quotations must be submitted electronically to Victor Nuno by March 24, 2025, at 1200 Eastern Time, with the award to be based on tradeoffs between firm, fixed price and prior experience. The contract will involve complex technical tasks including sensor assembly, cable termination, oil filling, welding, and comprehensive testing. Potential contractors will need to demonstrate significant technical capabilities in scientific instrumentation manufacturing.

The solicitation is set aside for 100% small business participation, categorized under NAICS code 334519 for Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing and PSC code 6655 for Geophysical Instruments. The initial period of performance was originally specified from April 1 to May 31, 2025, but has been amended to extend through October 31, 2025. The instrument will be positioned in a deviated borehole approximately 45 degrees from vertical, requiring specialized design and installation expertise. While the exact contract value is not specified in the documents, the detailed technical requirements suggest a specialized and potentially high-value scientific instrumentation project. The place of performance will be at the SAFOD research site, with on-site installation and support required as part of the contract deliverables.