NASA intends to extend Contract NNA16BD14C with Universities Space Research Association (USRA) on a sole-source basis pursuant to 10 U.S.C 2304(c)(1), Only One Responsible Source. The objective is to extend the performance period for a potential eighteen (18) months. The current Contractor provides fundamental scientific research, concept development, prototype testing and operations, and the creation of new technologies. The research supports both ARC’s mission and NASA’s overall mission and goals in Aeronautics, Science, Space Technology and Human Exploration and Operations. NAMS contract also provides academic and university-based program and project support for science and engineering organizations. The current contractor, USRA is considered the only contractor that can meet ARC's needs. USRA unique expertise in the development, modification, integration, application, and validation of data analysis and state-of-the-art software development as well as their ability to provide continuity of service through the extension of the contract. Award to another source during the same period of performance would result in substantial duplication of cost to the Government that is not expected to be recovered through competition, and unacceptable delays in fulfilling the agency's requirements. The extension will extend the period of performance of the current contract, NNA16BD14C, for a period up to eighteen (18) months, consisting of a twelve (12) month base period and one (1) six-month option period. The period of performance will be extended June 1, 2022 through November 30, 2023, if option period is exercised. The extension will increase the contract value accordingly. The current contractor, USRA is considered the only contractor that can meet ARC's needs given the short period of performance for the extension. Awarding a twelve-month contract to another source, at the same time as ARC develops the requirements for the proposed follow-on, would result in substantial duplication of costs and unacceptable delays in fulfilling the Government's requirements and not allow for a sufficient phase-in period, thereby affecting the continuity of services and causing unacceptable delays in fulfilling ARC's requirements. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. Notwithstanding this stated intent, interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact no later than 12:30 PM. PDT on April 13, 2022. 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. Questions regarding the extension can be sent via email to Starr L. Strong at
[email protected]. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. 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. Thank you for your interest in NASA Procurements.