Ardara quadrupole mass spectrometer with cross-beam ionizer
ID: 80NSSC26922480QType: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

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

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

PSC

COMBINATION AND MISCELLANEOUS INSTRUMENTS (6695)
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    Description

    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Shared Services Center is seeking to award a sole-source contract to Ardara Technologies LP for the procurement of an Ardara quadrupole mass spectrometer with a cross-beam ionizer. This specialized instrument is required to meet NASA's stringent sensitivity, mass selectivity, and hydrogen distinguishability requirements, which are critical for planned characterization measurements. The quadrupole mass spectrometer must feature a mass range of 1-50 AMU, a 12 mm quadrupole with a frequency of at least 3.3 MHz, and yttrium oxide-coated iridium filaments, among other specifications. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities in writing by 7 a.m. Central Standard Time on January 9, 2026, to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible, with Shanna Patterson serving as the primary contact for inquiries.

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    This Statement of Work outlines the requirements for a quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS) with a cross-beam ionizer. The objective is to procure a QMS capable of distinguishing atomic and molecular hydrogen, with specific characteristics including a mass range of 1-50 AMU, a 12 mm quadrupole mass filter with a frequency of at least 3.3 MHz, an ionization volume with a 0.92” ID, a 0.375” entrance aperture, an analytical quadrupole length of at least 8”, and yttrium oxide coated iridium filaments. The QMS must also include an ion detector, power supplies, cables, and data acquisition software. Delivery is expected within 60-90 days of receiving the order.
    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Shared Services Center recommends a sole-source negotiation with Ardara Technologies L.P. for a quadrupole mass spectrometer with a cross-beam ionizer. The estimated cost is unspecified, with a 60-90 day delivery lead-time. This recommendation is based on Ardara Technologies L.P.'s unique specifications, including a 12 mm quadrupole with a frequency of at least 3.3 MHz, a specific ionization volume and entrance aperture, an 8-inch analytical quadrupole length, and yttrium oxide-coated iridium filaments. These features are critical for meeting NASA's sensitivity, mass selectivity, and hydrogen distinguishability requirements, which are crucial for planned characterization measurements. The justification states that competing products lack the necessary sensitivity, making alternative measurements difficult or impossible.
    NASA/NSSC intends to award a sole-source contract to ARDARA TECHNOLOGIES LP for a Flange Mounted Quadrupole Mass Filter SYSTEM with a 1 to 50 amu mass range. This procurement, categorized under NAICS Code 334516, is justified by ARDARA TECHNOLOGIES LP being the sole provider of this specific system. The contract will be managed by NASA/NSSC, with performance at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). The acquisition will follow FAR Part 12 and Part 13 procedures for commercial items and services. Interested organizations can submit their capabilities in writing by 7 a.m. Central Standard Time on January 9, 2026, for evaluation to determine if a competitive procurement is viable. The decision to proceed on a non-competitive basis remains at the government's discretion. Shanna Patterson is the primary point of contact.
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