The document outlines a service contract for preventative maintenance and emergency support for a JEOL IT-800(SHL) scanning electron microscope (SEM) utilized by the Detector Systems Branch at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The SEM is essential for various analytical projects, requiring regular maintenance from factory-qualified engineers to ensure operational efficiency. The scope of the contract includes up to 14 days of labor and/or travel for emergency service and preventive maintenance, along with unlimited telephone support and replacement of defective parts, capped at $4,250 per contract term. Emergency services cover repairs on the SEM and associated components, while additional labor will be billed at a reduced rate if maximum days are exceeded. The contract spans one year following award. This procurement aligns with government RFPs aimed at sustaining critical scientific instruments necessary for ongoing research initiatives.

The NASA Shared Services Center recommends negotiating a sole-source service contract with JEOL USA Inc for maintenance of a proprietary Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). This specialized SEM, critical to multiple projects within the Detector Systems Branch like ATHENA and PRIMA, requires unique maintenance due to its advanced features, including high-resolution imaging and X-ray spectroscopy capabilities. Alternative vendors are unavailable for these services because of the proprietary nature of the SEM, which necessitates factory-trained engineers for its upkeep. If another vendor were to be used, it could lead to significant delays and increased costs, jeopardizing ongoing projects. Overall, the recommendation underscores the necessity of JEOL USA Inc's engagement to ensure operational efficiency and project continuity.

NASA's National Suborbital Science Center (NSSC) plans to issue a sole source contract to JEOL USA, INC. for up to 14 days of labor and/or travel related to emergency service or preventive maintenance, including unlimited telephone support and parts replacement. This procurement is justified under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) as JEOL is the sole provider for these services. The contract will be executed at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), with a NAICS Code of 811210. Organizations interested in this procurement may submit their capabilities and qualifications by 7 a.m. Central Standard Time on January 24, 2025. The government reserves the right to determine whether to proceed competitively based on the responses. Oral communications are not allowed. The notice also includes contact details for the procurement specialist, Shanna Patterson, and references NASA's Ombudsman clause for inquiries.