Notice of Intent to Sole Source a Dynafiz interferometer from Zygo Corporation

NASA LaRC intends to purchase a Dynafiz interferometer from Zygo Corporation as sole source procurement. The Zygo Dynafiz interferometer will supplement an existing Zygo Verifire interferometer, drastically enhancing the optical metrology and alignment capabilities in the Remote Sensing Branch. Optical accessories for the Verifire and Dynafiz are interchangeable, enabling greater functionality for both interferometers. The interferometers also share a common base control software package, known as “Mx.” A common control software package running on both units allows interchangeable software scripts on both interferometers with minimal modification, halving operator training requirements, and increasing proficiency by focusing on one system. Although other vendors offer dynamic optical alignment functions vaguely similar to the Dynafiz, only Zygo interferometers offer accessory interchangeability and a common base software approach. Since Zygo Corporation is the designer and manufacturer of the Dynafiz interferometer, as well as author of the Mx control software system, there are no alternative sources for the Zygo Dynafiz, nor are there any equivalent alternative devices.

NASA LaRC has a requirement for laser interferometer for characterization of reflective and trans missive optical elements, assemblies, and systems. The interferometer and analysis software must have sufficient performance to enable real-time generation of Zernike feedback for active monitoring during the alignment of an optical system. Interferometer camera resolution must be no less than 1.2k x 1.2k, with a frame rate of no less than 50 Hz, and a minimum of 10 bit digitization. Interferometer laser beam source shall operate at 633 nm, frequency stabilized to <0.0001 nm. The interferometer must have a native unexpanded test beam diameter of no less than 4" (101 mm). The interferometer system must have an expanded beam diameter of no less than 12" (304 mm) and must be equipped with a switchable mirror assembly to route the unexpanded or expanded beam to a unit under test. The interferometer system shall include a three (3) position motorized zoom turret providing 1X, 1.7X, and 3X magnification ratios. The interferometer system shall include a 12" (304 mm) lambda/25 PVr Dynaflect coated transmission flat, a 12" (304 mm) lambda/25 PVr 4% reflectivity reference flat, and a 12" 2-axis adjustable reference flat mount. The interferometer shall accept, without modification, 4" (101 mm) reference optics from the existing LaRC Zygo Verifire interferometer. The interferometer control and analysis software shall fully compatible with the existing LaRC Zygo Mx control software.

The Government intends 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 4:00 p.m. eastern standard time on 03/27/2020. 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.