Development of an automated design optimization workflow coupling deep-learning based tools with the existing Loci/CHEM suite for simulation of optimal aerospike nozzle design.

NASA's Shared Services Center issued a sole-source Special Notice on July 28, 2026, announcing its intent to award a contract to Mississippi State University for development of an automated design optimization workflow coupling deep-learning tools with the Loci/CHEM suite for aerospike nozzle design, with a response deadline of July 30, 2026 at 7:00 a.m. Central Time.

The work supports NASA Stennis Space Center's rocket nozzle development and requires building iterative grid deformation capabilities, establishing simulation case management frameworks, automating simulation execution, implementing post-processing to evaluate fitness functions, computing sensitivity gradients, and deploying an optimization algorithm within Loci/CHEM's existing infrastructure. The optimization routines must support 2D and axisymmetric domains, SST-based turbulence models, finite-rate chemistry, real-gas equations of state, and multiphase models. Deliverables include source code for all Loci/CHEM and PyLoci tools, a user manual documenting new features, and comprehensive documentation with optimized contours and convergence history. The contractor must provide status updates every 4–6 weeks, with demonstration case results due before or during April 2027 and final deliverables upon project completion. The performance period runs through April 30, 2027, with work performed at contractor facilities.

Mississippi State University's multi-decade development of Loci/CHEM and its tailored propulsion simulation capabilities form the sole-source justification; NASA evaluated alternative CFD codes including CRUNCH, Fluent, SU2, STAR-CCM+, CFX, and OpenFOAM and determined none met all critical propulsion requirements. Interested organizations may submit written capabilities statements by the July 30 deadline to challenge the sole-source determination; the Government reserves discretion to proceed competitively. Contact Shanna L. Patterson, Procurement Specialist, at Shanna.L.Patterson@nasa.gov.