Sources Sought Notice for Mid-IR Optical Frequency Comb

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a Sources Sought Notice for Mid-IR Optical Frequency Comb Systems as part of the CHIPS Metrology Program. NIST is seeking to procure three optical frequency comb systems designed to support measurement science applications in semiconductor manufacturing, space, defense, and satellite industries. The systems must be capable of performing broadband spectroscopy, generating spectral reference data, and conducting calibrations across infrared wavelength ranges from 2.6 millimeters to greater than 15 millimeters. Potential vendors are required to submit detailed responses that include company information, comprehensive equipment specifications, manufacturing location, service capabilities, and customer references. Respondents must be registered in SAM.gov and should submit information electronically to the specified point of contact without including proprietary information. The due date for responses is December 3, 2026, and NIST has emphasized that this Sources Sought Notice is market research only and does not guarantee that a solicitation or contract award will follow.

This pre-solicitation notice has no set-aside designations and does not identify any current contractors or incumbents. The notice does not specify an award value or budget range for the procurement. The quantity requirement is clearly defined at three optical frequency comb systems. No information regarding potential award amounts, contract timeline, or service duration has been disclosed in this market research phase, as NIST is using this notice to gather information about available solutions and vendor capabilities before proceeding with formal procurement actions.