Deformable Mirror (DM) for Adaptive Optics System

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Center for Devices and Radiological Health is procuring a single Deformable Mirror (DM) for use in an adaptive optics system that supports regulatory science investigations into ophthalmic devices, specifically for microscopic visualization of human retinal cells and structures. The DM must meet stringent technical specifications including more than 90 actuators arranged in a circular layout, capability to correct Zernike orders up to 10, silver coating with greater than 95% reflectivity, a 15 mm effective diameter, and specific surface quality requirements. This procurement is being conducted as a combined synopsis/solicitation Request for Quotation under FAR Subpart 12.6 for commercial items, with contractors required to provide manufacturing, testing, factory calibration, quality assurance documentation, user documentation, and technical support services. The evaluation will follow a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) methodology, first assessing technical acceptability against minimum requirements, then evaluating price among technically acceptable proposals. Electronic quotes must be submitted to Jennifer Mun by September 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM ET, including technical quotes demonstrating Statement of Work conformance, complete price quotes, representations and certifications, and active SAM.gov registration.

This solicitation is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside under the Simplified Acquisition procedures of FAR Part 13, with the NAICS code 334516 for Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. No incumbent contractors or potential award values are specified in the solicitation documents. The contract will be a Firm Fixed Price arrangement with a 30-calendar day performance period from contract award for delivery of the single DM system. Performance will occur at the contractor's facility, with final delivery expected in Silver Spring, Maryland, though the place of performance is listed as Bethesda, Maryland. The procurement supports CDRH Strategic Priorities and will enhance the capabilities of the government's existing adaptive optics system for advanced ophthalmic research conducted in collaboration with academic institutions.