MEMKOR GUNMETAL Series 3U VPX MK3X SSD Storage Modules

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center (NASA SSC) is seeking to procure MEMKOR GUNMETAL Series 3U VPX MK3X SSD Storage Modules specifically designed for data acquisition systems in heliophysics sounding rocket missions. The solicitation requires a specialized SSD (part number: MKX3XCFP41T0IG-992A) with specific technical requirements, including 1TB storage capacity, conduction cooling, XMC supported interfaces, and the ability to operate in extreme environmental conditions ranging from -40 to 85 degrees Celsius. The contract requires the selected vendor to deliver the storage modules with high data throughput capabilities, meeting stringent reliability standards such as an Ultra-Low Bit Error Rate (UBER) of less than 10-16. The solicitation was posted on December 3, 2024, with proposals due by December 10, 2024, indicating a tight response window of approximately one week. Evaluation criteria will likely focus on technical compliance, environmental adaptability, and the vendor's ability to meet the precise specifications outlined in the Statement of Work.

This contract opportunity is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside, targeting smaller manufacturers in the Computer Storage Device Manufacturing sector (NAICS 334112). The period of performance is estimated at 20 weeks from the award date, with work to be performed at the contractor's facility. While no specific award value is explicitly stated, the brand name justification document suggests the procurement will focus on cost-effectiveness per gigabyte of storage. The required SSD must meet rigorous military-grade environmental standards, including vibration and shock specifications (VITA 47.1 Class V3 and Class OS2), and be capable of operating at altitudes up to 80,000 feet. The unique requirements stem from the mission-critical nature of the storage modules, which will be used in space research applications where reliability and performance are paramount. NASA has determined that the MEMKOR SSD is the most suitable option, with alternatives potentially introducing unacceptable mission risks.