Development of the Quantitative Elemental Reconnaissance Instrument (QuERI)

NASA's National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center (NASA/NSSC) is procuring the development of the Quantitative Elemental Reconnaissance Instrument (QuERI), a two-channel Silicon Drift Detector system designed for spectroscopy and timing applications. The procurement seeks electronic development services that will translate science requirements into engineering specifications, develop electronic architecture and detailed schematics, prepare bills of materials, conduct testing and characterization, and deliver comprehensive engineering documentation. The Government intends to award this as a sole source contract under FAR 12.102(a), treating the effort as a commercial acquisition under FAR Part 12. However, interested organizations may submit capabilities and qualifications in writing by April 17, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. Central Standard Time to demonstrate whether the procurement should be conducted on a competitive basis. The Government will evaluate submissions solely to determine competitiveness, with the final decision to compete or proceed with the sole source award remaining entirely within Government discretion.

This solicitation does not utilize any set-aside designations and currently identifies NOQSI AEROSPACE LTD of Billerica, Massachusetts as the sole source provider. The contract will be performed at NOQSI Aerospace's facility in Billerica, Massachusetts, with work also coordinated at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. The period of performance extends from March 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026, representing approximately six and one-half months for electronics development and testing. The Statement of Work indicates the effort will incorporate FPGA technology to replace microcontroller components while building upon NICER heritage design principles, and the contractor must participate in interface control document preparation and team meetings throughout the performance period. No specific award value or budget range is disclosed in the solicitation notice, and all communications regarding this opportunity should be directed to Procurement Specialist Cody Guidry or Contracting Officer Tiffany Neal at the provided email addresses.