The Crew and Thermal Systems Division's Space Suit and Crew Survival Systems Branch is requesting the build of a mold and delivery of a prototype for an injection molded pressure bubble for future spacesuit designs.
ID: 80NSSC26920704QType: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATIONNATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATIONNASA SHARED SERVICES CENTERSTENNIS SPACE CENTER, MS, 39529, USA

NAICS

Hardware Manufacturing (332510)

PSC

EDUCATION, TRAINING, EMPLOYMENT, & SOCIAL SVCS R&D SVCS; TRAINING & LABOR R&D; BASIC RESEARCH (AF21)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/6f5dfa249e364335af9fdb9e1bfc9020/view
Timeline
    Description

    NASA's National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking to procure the development of a mold and the delivery of a prototype for an injection molded pressure bubble, specifically for future spacesuit designs under the Crew and Thermal Systems Division's Space Suit and Crew Survival Systems Branch. The primary objective is to create a high-quality pressure bubble that meets stringent specifications, including precise dimensions, optical quality standards, and the ability to withstand specific loads and impacts, with the work to be performed at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. This procurement is critical for advancing spacesuit technology and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of crew survival systems in space missions. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications by December 22, 2025, to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible, with Shanna Patterson as the primary contact for inquiries.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Shanna Patterson
    shanna.l.patterson@nasa.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    SATPC0040144 Tab 04 4 SOW..pdf
    This Statement of Work (SOW) outlines the requirements for the alternative manufacturing of a spacesuit pressure bubble for future designs, specifically for the xEMU pressure bubble using an injection molded system. The objective is to develop and manufacture this component. Key requirements include precise innermost and outermost dimensions (10" x 13" innermost, detailed in Figure 1 for outer), a minimum wall thickness of 0.075 inches, and specific optical quality standards such as limited imperfections, haze not exceeding 2% (ASTM D1003), and visible light transmission of at least 82%. The pressure bubble must also withstand an IVA contact load of 125 lbs, an ultimate pressure load of 21.2 psid, and a micro-gravity impact from a 2-inch steel ball. The scope of work involves building a mold for the pressure bubble and delivering five high-quality prototypes to NASA. Deliverables include monthly status meeting presentations and hardware delivered to Johnson Space Center within six months, accompanied by an Acceptance Data Package containing material certifications and inspection records. Shipping requires a DD Form 250 with detailed information. Quality requirements mandate a Certificate of Compliance with each shipment. Additionally, the contract includes clauses regarding the disclosure and acquisition of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
    SATPC0040144 Tab 06 RDSS..pdf
    The NASA Shared Services Center recommends a sole-source negotiation with 3-Dimensional Services Group for the injection mold manufacturing of the xEMU Pressure Bubble. This recommendation is based on 3-Dimensional's proprietary knowledge in designing injection molded helmets, including extensive gate flow analysis, CAE simulations for optimizing polymer melt flow, and a proven history of meeting strict optical quality requirements for spacesuit applications. The company's prior experience in building similar injection molded helmet designs for other spacesuit providers is expected to significantly streamline the development process, resulting in considerable time and cost savings. Utilizing any other vendor would necessitate re-executing design and mold flow analysis, and require a new vendor to prove their capabilities, leading to substantial increases in both cost and schedule for the government.
    SATPC0040144 Tab 07 Capability Statement SAM.gov.pdf
    NASA/NSSC intends to award a sole-source contract to THREE-DIMENSIONAL SERVICES, INC. for the development of a mold and prototype of an injection-molded pressure bubble for future spacesuit designs. This procurement, under NAICS Code 332510, is authorized by FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i), as THREE-DIMENSIONAL SERVICES, INC. has been identified as the sole provider. The work will be performed at NASA/Johnson Space Center (JSC). Interested organizations may submit capabilities and qualifications by December 22, 2025, to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible. The government reserves the right to proceed with a non-competitive acquisition. Shanna Patterson is the primary point of contact.
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