ESS Module Testing Phase 3

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center (NASA/NSSC) has issued a Special Notice for a sole source procurement related to ESS Module Testing Phase 3. The opportunity, identified under Federal Contract Opportunity ID 8099262f6e1546889d48b84bfd04e2ff, is specifically targeting the National Institute of Aviation Research (NIAR) for conducting critical battery testing services. NASA intends to award a direct contract to NIAR under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i), based on the organization's unique testing capabilities and previous experience with identical testing protocols. The procurement is classified under NAICS Code 611310 for educational services and will be performed at NASA Langley Research Center. The solicitation number is 80NSSC25897775Q and involves acquiring commercial items and services using FAR Part 12 and Part 13 procedures.

The primary objective of this Special Notice is to support electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft development through comprehensive Li-Ion battery module drop testing. Contractors interested in submitting capabilities must provide written documentation by 7 a.m. Central Standard Time on March 13, 2025, to the designated contact, Shanna Patterson (Shanna.l.Patterson@nasa.gov). The testing will involve dynamically dropping battery modules from 50 feet to determine survivability and generate data for airworthiness certification regulations. NIAR will be required to develop a final test plan with NASA, instrument and mount test articles, conduct drop tests, and provide raw data and video files. The testing services include comprehensive infrastructure support, including specialized instrumentation, video recording, safety equipment, and post-test analysis. The contract has a performance period through June 30, 2026, and will ultimately support the advancement of electric aircraft propulsion system certification. NASA will evaluate submitted capabilities to determine whether to proceed with competitive or sole source procurement.