NOAA - Compact, Wide Angle, Underwater Camera

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries, South East Fisheries Science Center is seeking a compact, low-cost, wide-angle underwater stereo imaging system to support fishery-independent surveys and enhance stock assessment capabilities. The solicitation targets the development of an advanced underwater camera system with specific technical requirements, including a 500m working depth, 25 lb dry weight, 24-hour standby time, and 5-hour recording capability. Contractors will be evaluated based on both technical capabilities and pricing, with a strong emphasis on meeting or exceeding minimum technical specifications and providing highly desirable attributes. The solicitation requires contractors to deliver a working prototype at readiness level 7 within 9 months of contract initiation, with comprehensive documentation including design drawings, CAD files, system specifications, and source code. The proposal response is due by March 28, 2025, with a base performance period from April 15, 2025, through April 14, 2026.

The contract is set aside for Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) participants within the Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing NAICS category (334511). The government will retain rights to use, replicate, and modify the developed hardware and software, with a strong preference for open-source solutions. While specific award values are not disclosed, the contract represents a strategic investment in developing an innovative optical data acquisition system for marine research. The system will be deployed for marine research purposes, likely in oceanic regions where NOAA conducts fisheries surveys. Contractors will be required to participate in design consultation meetings, conduct equipment testing, and submit a comprehensive final report detailing the technical development and capabilities of the underwater imaging system.