Tecnar High-Speed Particle Tracking System
ID: 80NSSC25911803QType: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

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

NAICS

Engineering Services (541330)

PSC

IT AND TELECOM - MOBILE DEVICE PRODUCTS (HARDWARE AND PERPETUAL LICENSE SOFTWARE) (7E21)
Timeline
    Description

    NASA's National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) intends to procure a Tecnar High-Speed Particle Tracking System from JP Sauer Inc. through a sole source contract, as this specialized system is uniquely capable of providing simultaneous measurements of particle temperature, velocity, and size in high-speed particle environments, particularly within plasma spray chambers. The acquisition is critical for enhancing NASA Langley Research Center's research capabilities in advanced particle characterization technologies, ensuring quality assurance in plasma spray applications. Interested organizations may submit their qualifications by 7 a.m. CST on August 4, 2025, to determine if the procurement will proceed competitively, with inquiries directed to Shanna Patterson at shanna.l.patterson@nasa.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    This document outlines a Request for Proposal (RFP) detailing the requirements for a purchase by NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The primary objective is to acquire a turnkey DPV evolution system, which will be delivered alongside two days of on-site training for its use. The system has specific shipping dimensions (122cm x 61cm x 108cm) and weighs 152 kg, categorized under H.S. Code 9027.50.00. Additionally, there are optional features for purchase: a CPS 2000 laser designed for cold spray processes and an Accuraspray 4.0 sensor, also categorized under the same H.S. Code. The place of performance for this project is the NASA LaRC, with an expected delivery period of 8 weeks from the notice to proceed. This procurement is vital for enhancing LaRC's research capabilities in advanced particle characterization technologies.
    The document outlines a recommendation from the NASA Shared Services Center to negotiate solely with Sauer Engineering for the acquisition of the Tecnar High-Speed Particle Tracking System. The system uniquely provides simultaneous measurements of particle temperature, velocity, and size, specifically designed for high-speed particles in plasma spray chambers. The justification for this sole-source acquisition is based on extensive market research demonstrating that Tecnar's system is the only available solution that meets the stringent requirements for in-flight particle characterization under vacuum conditions. Notable features include accurate dual-speed capability and the ability to measure high temperatures, which are critical for quality assurance in plasma spray applications. The document emphasizes that alternative vendors lack the comprehensive capabilities of Tecnar's system, which could lead to increased costs, operational complexities, and potential delays in research efforts if chosen. Furthermore, it underscores that using a different vendor may necessitate the use of multiple instruments or custom solutions, thus complicating workflows and undermining the quality of research outcomes. This recommendation underscores the application of streamlined procurement processes within the context of federal contracting to ensure operational efficiency and uphold research integrity.
    NASA/NSSC intends to procure a Tecnar High-Speed Particle Tracking System from JP SAUER INC, the sole provider, through a sole source contract, as permitted by FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). The procurement will be managed at NASA’s Langley Research Center, emphasizing the acquisition of commercial items and services under FAR Part 12 and Part 13. Interested organizations may submit their qualifications by 7 a.m. CST on August 4, 2025, to determine if the procurement will proceed competitively. The government retains discretion over the decision to pursue competition based on submitted responses. Oral communication is not allowed in response to this notice, and additional details regarding the Ombudsman for this acquisition can be accessed online. The primary contact for inquiries is Shanna Patterson, a Procurement Specialist at NASA. This document outlines the singular need for a specialized system, highlighting the governmental procurement process and the importance of competitive evaluation.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Special Notice
    Similar Opportunities
    TTTech Switch Lab Space Switches
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking to award a sole-source contract to TTTech North America Inc for the acquisition of TTTech TTE-Switch Lab Space Switches. This procurement is justified as it involves the acquisition of Time Triggered Ethernet technology, which is critical for safety and determinism in high-stakes systems, such as human-rated spacecraft. The contract aims to ensure the availability of specialized hardware essential for NASA's advanced technological applications. Interested parties can reach out to primary contact Kavina Patel at kavina.patel@nasa.gov or secondary contact Wayne Plummer at wayne.s.plummer@nasa.gov for further inquiries.
    Purchase an extrusion system that will be used to develop regolith composites
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Shared Services Center is seeking quotations for the procurement of an extrusion system designed for the development of regolith composites. This system must include essential components such as a material hopper, filament cooling path, spool winder, and a hardened screw capable of processing thermoplastic and abrasive regolith materials. The procurement is set aside for small businesses, emphasizing the importance of this technology for NASA's research and development initiatives. Quotes are due by December 9, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. CT, and must be submitted to Laura Quave at laura.a.quave@nasa.gov, with technical questions due by December 5, 2025. Interested vendors must be registered on SAM.gov and adhere to specific provisions outlined in the RFQ and Statement of Work.
    JOFOC for the Flight-Like Advanced Material Reactors
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is issuing a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition for the Flight-Like Advanced Material Reactors contract, identified as 80MSFC21CA010. This procurement aims to support advanced research and development in national defense and atomic energy, focusing on the creation of innovative material reactors that simulate flight conditions. The contract is critical for advancing NASA's capabilities in applied research within the aerospace sector. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Laura Bullington at Laura.E.Bullington@nasa.gov or Cynthia Hubbard at cynthia.a.hubbard@nasa.gov.
    LaRC Abaqus Software Renewal
    Buyer not available
    NASA's National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking to renew its contract for Abaqus software, a critical tool used for advanced engineering simulations. The procurement is justified as a limited source acquisition, indicating that the software is essential for NASA's operations and that only specific vendors can provide the necessary support and updates. The renewal of this software is vital for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of NASA's engineering processes. Interested parties can reach out to Caitlin Poulton at caitlin.m.poulton@nasa.gov or call 228-813-6211 for further details regarding this opportunity.
    SNA Software LLC. Limited Source Justification
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is issuing a Limited Source Justification for data analysis support services through GSA contractor SNA Software LLC. This procurement aims to secure specialized IT and telecom service delivery support, specifically focusing on operations center and project management services. The services are critical for the effective analysis and management of EPFD data, which plays a vital role in NASA's research and operational activities. Interested parties can reach out to primary contact Melissa Newell at melissa.newell@nasa.gov or secondary contact Nikki Terranova at nikki.terranova@nasa.gov for further information regarding this opportunity.
    FY26 Wave6 Renewal
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is planning to award a sole source contract for the FY26 Wave6 Renewal to DS Government Solutions Corp, identified as the sole provider for this requirement. This procurement, managed by the NASA Shared Services Center, will be conducted under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) and will take place at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The services sought are categorized under Other Computer Related Services, specifically focusing on IT and telecom business application development software as a service. Interested organizations are invited to submit their capabilities and qualifications by 1 p.m. Central Standard Time on December 1, 2025, to Cara Craft at cara.s.craft@nasa.gov, which may influence the decision on whether to conduct a competitive procurement process.
    SOURCES SOUGHT SPECIAL NOTICE 2025
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Ames Research Center is issuing a Sources Sought Special Notice for potential partners interested in developing competitive proposals for various NASA Announcements of Opportunity (AOs) and Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs). The primary objective is to identify partners capable of conducting scientific investigations, research activities, and technology demonstrations that align with NASA's goals, as well as providing necessary flight hardware for these missions. This initiative is crucial for advancing NASA's exploration and research capabilities, particularly in areas such as planetary exploration and space science. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses, including relevant capabilities and partnership interests, to the designated contact at ARC-Sources-Sought@mail.nasa.gov, with responses accepted at any time and maintained for three years after receipt.
    Communique Licenses Renewal and Associated Services
    Buyer not available
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking to renew licenses for Communique software and associated services through a non-competitive procurement action. This action involves a firm-fixed price purchase order that supports the software currently in use across the NASA agency, with a performance period that began on January 1, 2023, and extends for one year. The Communique software is critical for facilitating communication and collaboration within NASA's operations. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Caitlin Poulton at Caitlin.M.Poulton@nasa.gov.
    Notice of Sole Source Justification: Velo3D Sapphire Additive Manufacturing System 1-Year Lease
    Buyer not available
    NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is seeking to award a sole source contract for a one-year lease of the Velo3D Sapphire Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) System from Velo3D Inc. This procurement is critical for NASA's evaluation and certification of flight components for the Human Landing System (HLS) and Space Launch System (SLS) vehicles, as hands-on experience with this specific machine is necessary to ensure safety and compliance in manufacturing processes. The Velo3D Sapphire system is uniquely positioned to meet the high-risk evaluation needs identified by the NASA Engineering Safety Center (NESC), which is managing this project. Interested parties can direct inquiries to Yong Castillo at yong.h.castillo@nasa.gov or Sadie Moulton at sadie.m.moulton@nasa.gov for further details.
    TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: Enhanced Software Suite Maximizes Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) Methods (MSC-TOPS-34)
    Buyer not available
    NASA's Technology Transfer Program is seeking inquiries from companies interested in obtaining licensing rights for an Enhanced Software Suite designed to maximize Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) methods, specifically the Flash Thermography NDE Technology Suite. This suite, developed by researchers at NASA Johnson Space Center, offers advanced techniques for post-processing flash infrared thermography data, enhancing the detection and characterization of anomalies in composite and metallic structures, thus improving operator accuracy and efficiency. The technology is crucial for various applications in structural assessments, and interested parties can submit a license application through NASA’s Automated Technology Licensing Application System (ATLAS) at https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/MSC-TOPS-34. Please note that NASA provides no funding in conjunction with these licenses, and inquiries can be directed to Agency-Patent-Licensing@mail.nasa.gov for further information.