conduct strap indentation testing of torus test article from the 10m HIAD design

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center (NASA/NSSC) has issued a Special Notice for a specialized scientific testing contract. The notice announces NASA's intent to issue a sole source contract to the University of Maine System for conducting strap indentation testing on a torus test article from a 10m Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (HIAD) design. The procurement will be managed through NASA/NSSC, with performance located at NASA's Langley Research Center. The contract will be processed under the provisions of FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 13, utilizing the NAICS code 334519 for Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing. The opportunity is being pursued without a specific set-aside for any particular type of contractor.

Interested organizations have until 12 p.m. Central Standard Time on March 7, 2025, to submit their capabilities and qualifications for performing the testing effort. The government will evaluate these submissions solely to determine whether the procurement should be conducted on a competitive basis, with the final decision remaining entirely at the government's discretion. The testing objective involves conducting comprehensive strap indentation tests using 20 straps at different radial locations, employing multiple internal pressures and webbing widths. Contractors must be prepared to use 3 ARAMIS Systems for photogrammetry measurements and maintain precise load control with continuous data collection. The period of performance is set at 70 calendar days after contract award, with required deliverables including a test plan, test procedure, test readiness review, and a final test report with detailed data analysis. NASA Clause 1852.215-84 regarding the Ombudsman is applicable to this procurement.