JPL Decadal Survey Studies in support of NASA Designated Observable (DO) Architectures

January 29, 2020 - The purpose of this modification is to (1) attach Addendum #1 – Questions and, (2) extend the response due date to February 12, 2020 at 3:00 PM (PST ). The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), an operating division of the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) staffed with Caltech employees, is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) under the sponsorship of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). As a member of the NASA family, JPL is recognized as the Agency's only FFRDC. The Laboratory is seeking potential subcontractors to participate in studies in support of NASA-designated Observable Architectures. BACKGROUND: The 2017 Earth Science Decadal Survey (DS) describes a “new” program element identified as the Designated Observables (DOs). These are cost-capped medium- and large-size missions/observing systems to address observables essential to the overall Earth Science program. The DOs address five of the highest-priority Earth observation needs. The DS suggests that these be implemented as three large missions and two medium missions, with development costs including launch and core science. The systems implemented under the DOs will acquire measurements that are foundational elements of the decade’s observations. The solution space for each DO is not expected to be a single dedicated mission but rather an observing system comprised of multiple elements of NASA, international, interagency, commercial and other assets. The sought after observing systems will achieve substantial amounts of the recommended objectives for less than the identified costs given in the DS report. Further information on NASA’s response to the Decadal Survey’s recommendations can be found at https://science.nasa.gov/earth-science/decadal-surveys Any development of DO architectures will occur after the completion of these DO Architecture Studies. Accordingly, this subcontract is restricted to Architecture studies only and does NOT invite proposals for the provision of any hardware to DO missions and observing systems. DISCLAIMER: Prospective subcontractors are advised that any additional information you provide shall be deemed to be furnished with unlimited rights to JPL, with JPL assuming no liability for the disclosure, use, or reproduction of such data. It is emphasized that the requested information is for preliminary planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment, implied or otherwise, that JPL will solicit you for such procurement in the future. Neither JPL nor the Government will be responsible for any costs incurred by you in furnishing this information.