Voyager 1 and 2 Magnetometer Calibration and Data Validation

NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center has a requirement for continued scientific research for the fully calibrated Voyager 1 and 2 magnetic field data that shall incorporate the spacecraft magroll maneuvers, instrument magcal results, and comparison of the inboard and outboard magnetometer measurements. Spacecraft induced data spikes and offsets shall be removed from the data set. The science research performed with the Voyager 1 and 2 magnetic field data shall demonstrate and validate that the measurements are consistent with the inner and outer heliosheath environment the spacecraft are currently traversing. Expert consultation shall include, but not limited to, expert advice on the proper processing of the Voyager 1 and 2 magnetic field data during long durations of no spacecraft roll maneuvers.

The NASA Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft were launched in 1977 on a mission to explore the outer gas giant planets. After Voyager 2 passed by the Neptune system in 1989, the twin spacecraft were recommissioned to study the outer reaches of our heliosphere and the local interstellar medium, called the Voyager Interstellar Mission (VIM). Voyager 1 crossed the heliopause, the outer boundary of the heliosphere in 2012 entering into the local interstellar medium for the first time. Voyager 2 accomplished the same milestone in 2018. Both spacecraft are expected to operate beyond 2025.

Each Voyager spacecraft carries two fluxgate magnetometers on a 13 m boom to measure the ambient magnetic field vectors. Since the magnetometers were optimized for the large fields of the outer planets, calibrating the instruments for the very small outer heliospheric and interstellar fields is a very complex process. The calibration procedure, developed over the past two decades, relies on occasional spacecraft rolls and an internal electronic magcal process. In addition, the measurements obtained by the inboard and outboard magnetometers are compared, and spacecraft induced noises are eliminated.

NASA/GSFC intends to issue a sole-source Request for Proposal (RFP) to BURLAGA, LEONARD F. The data validation process for the magnetometers has been developed and is currently being executed by Dr. Leonard Burlaga. The estimated period of performance for this firm fixed price (FFP) contract will be for one year plus two option years (total of 3 years).
Statutory authority for this procurement is 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1)--Only One Responsible Source. However, organizations who believe they can provide these services without any detrimental impact to the program schedules supported by this work should fully identify their interest and capabilities within 15 days after publication of this synopsis. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to Contract Specialist Ronda Stone via e-mail at Ronda.R.Stone@nasa.gov not later than 4:30 p.m. local time on December 19, 2024 . 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. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.
The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12.
NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at : https://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/procurement/regs/Procurement-Ombuds-Comp-Advocate-Listing.pdf