The document outlines NASA's Statement of Work for testing Energy Storage Systems (ESS) used in electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, emphasizing the need for airworthiness certification. The primary objective is to perform dynamic drop tests on ESS modules to evaluate their survivability during impact scenarios, specifically a 50 ft drop as per FAA regulations. The test lab is required to conduct both practice and actual drop tests, ensuring proper instrumentation, data collection, and safety measures are in place. Key duties include providing temporary storage and transportation of test articles, implementing a comprehensive test plan with NASA, and complying with hazardous materials regulations for shipping post-test. Deliverables consist of raw data and video files alongside execution checklists. The contract is set to expire on June 30, 2026, underscoring the definitive timeline for the project's completion.
The document outlines a recommendation from the NASA Shared Services Center to negotiate exclusively with the National Institute of Aviation Research (NIAR) for Environmental Stress Screening (ESS) Testing Services. The rationale for this sole source solicitation is based on NIAR's unique capabilities, including their existing equipment and personnel familiar with NASA's past testing methodologies. The estimated period of performance for this service extends through June 30, 2026.
The recommendation emphasizes that engaging another vendor could lead to increased costs, delays, and uncertainties due to the need for a new vendor to replicate existing services. A previous market survey indicated that no other vendors are capable of providing similar capabilities, further justifying the selection of NIAR. Overall, this document serves to support a sole source procurement decision based on technical uniqueness, historical performance, and associated risks with alternative vendors.
NASA's NSSC seeks to procure ESS Module Testing Phase 3, planning to award a sole source contract to Wichita State University, the only supplier for this service. The procurement will take place at NASA's Langley Research Center, utilizing commercial acquisition methods outlined in FAR Parts 12 and 13. The relevant NAICS code is 611310. Organizations interested in the contract have until March 13, 2025, at 7 a.m. CST to submit their qualifications in writing, as oral communications are not permitted. The decision on whether to proceed competitively lies with the government, which retains discretion in determining the procurement process. An Ombudsman for this acquisition is designated to address any concerns, further details are accessible through the provided URL. The main point of contact for inquiries related to this requirement is Procurement Specialist Shanna Patterson.