Magic Wavelength Laser for Ytterbium Optical Lattice Clocks
ID: NB688000-25-02099Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGYDEPT OF COMMERCE NISTGAITHERSBURG, MD, 20899, USA

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

PSC

LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES (6640)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/2813041bd87743f38b3700b2f3c4f3f0/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Commerce, specifically the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking to procure a Magic Wavelength Laser for Ytterbium Optical Lattice Clocks to enhance optical timekeeping capabilities. The primary requirement is for a high-power External Cavity Diode Laser (ECDL) operating at 460 nm, with specific technical specifications including tunability, low linewidth, and high optical isolation, to be delivered within 16 weeks after receipt of order. This procurement is crucial for advancing research in precision timekeeping, which has significant implications for various scientific and technological applications. Interested vendors must submit their firm-fixed price quotes by 12:00 PM Mountain Standard Time on August 18, 2025, to deionne.jones@nist.gov, ensuring compliance with all solicitation requirements and possessing an active Unique Entity Identification (UEI) Number and SAM.gov registration.

    Point(s) of Contact
    de Ionne Jones
    deionne.jones@nist.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    25-02099 Requirements and Specifications.pdf
    NIST's Division 688, Neutral Atom Optical Clocks Group, requires a Magic Wavelength Laser for Ytterbium Optical Lattice Clocks to advance optical timekeeping. The agency is exploring an alternative wavelength at 460 nm, which offers potential clock advantages. The primary requirement is a high-power 460 nm ECDL (External Cavity Diode Laser) with specific technical specifications, including tunability between 457 and 461 nm, an instantaneous linewidth of less than 100 kHz, more than 10 GHz mode-hop-free tuning, and over 30 dB of optical isolation. The laser must deliver more than 400 mW after the isolator and include a digital controller with inputs for laser locking. The laser resonator should be machined from a single piece of metal for enhanced stability. The delivery of goods, installation, and any required training must be completed no later than 16 weeks ARO (After Receipt of Order). The warranty for the laser diode must be for one year or 3000 hours of operation, covering labor, parts, travel, and cost and liability for returns. Partial deliveries are acceptable.
    25-02099 Requirements and Specifications.pdf
    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is soliciting proposals for the procurement of a high-power 460 nm external cavity diode laser (ECDL) to support advancements in optical timekeeping through Ytterbium optical lattice clocks. This new magic wavelength offers potential improvements over the previously used 759 nm wavelength. The laser must have specific specifications including high power output (>400 mW), a narrow linewidth (<100 kHz), and a robust design for temperature and acoustic stability. Additionally, the proposal outlines service needs such as delivery within 16 weeks after receipt of order (ARO), warranty provisions for one year or 3,000 hours of operation, and no specific training or installation requirements. It accommodates partial delivery and requires the vendor to ensure necessary shipping and operational conditions without the need for on-site visits. The document emphasizes NIST’s commitment to enhancing optical clock technology and outlines detailed requirements to ensure the vendor can deliver a compliant product that meets the agency’s research objectives in high-precision timekeeping.
    RFQ NB688000-25-02099.pdf
    This document is a combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ NB688000-25-02099) for commercial items, specifically a Magic Wavelength Laser for Ytterbium Optical Lattice Clocks, for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Boulder, CO. The solicitation is unrestricted and falls under NAICS code 334516 with a 1,000-employee small business size standard. Quotes are due by 12:00 PM Mountain Standard Time on August 18, 2025, via email to deionne.jones@nist.gov. Offerors must provide a firm-fixed price quote including shipping (FOB Destination), country of origin, Net 30 payment terms, and delivery time (ideally sooner than 16 weeks ARO). Submissions require a technical quotation demonstrating capability, product literature, and acceptance of RFQ terms. Offerors must have an active Unique Entity Identification (UEI) Number and SAM.gov registration. Award will be based on the Lowest Priced Technically Acceptable (LPTA) quotation, with price reasonableness also evaluated. The document also details various FAR clauses, representations, and certifications related to small business status, responsible conduct, supply chain restrictions, and other compliance requirements.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Magic Wavelength Laser for Ytterbium Optical Lattice Clock
    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
    Magic Wavelength Laser for Ytterbium Optical Lattice Clocks
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