Gravity recovery and climate experiment -grace

Added: Jun 04, 2013 3:16 pm NASA Langley has a requirement for the University of Texas, Center for Space Research (UTCSR), the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) contractor, to provide continued, highly specialized mission planning and operations, science algorithm and software development and maintenance, validation and data product generation, distribution and archival, science community user support, and publication of results in scientific journals and technical meetings in support of the GRACE mission. NASA intends to issue a five-year contract including a two-year base effort, and an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) line item to accommodate approved mission extensions beyond the base effort, special studies, and other technical and mission related support required for GRACE. Because of its long history in executing the mission from the time of proposal selection through 11 years of operations, UT is the only source capable of providing the extended PI-lead mission support. This unique knowledge of the technology, including the software, ground systems, and science data, and previously resolved technical issues and upgrades, make UT the only source capable of providing the necessary services within the timeframe required and without substantial duplication of cost. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. eastern standard time on June 20, 2013. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html .