The Primary Constituents Monitor (PCM) project aims to manufacture and test a prototype capable of measuring oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and water vapor in specified pressure ranges and accuracy. This initiative will inform subsequent phases leading to flight hardware manufacturing and certification, with activities planned from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Key modifications to the original design include transitioning to an FPGA-controlled cooling system and omitting CO sensing components.
Deliverables include a detailed project schedule, a comprehensive final report on testing outcomes, and documentation of lessons learned from the breadboard's manufacturing process. The contractor is required to engage in bi-weekly teleconferences to discuss progress, test results, and any challenges faced. The government will provide support by coordinating access to certain earmarked hardware essential for the project. Overall, the PCM project represents a critical step towards advancing technology for atmospheric monitoring, focusing on ensuring reliability and precision in measurements for future applications.
The NASA Shared Services Center recommends negotiating solely with Vista Photonics, Inc for the manufacturing and testing of the Primary Constituent Monitor (PCM) breadboard, essential for the HALO module of the Gateway Program. The estimated cost and performance period for this project are indicated, spanning from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Vista Photonics, Inc developed the PCM design utilizing proprietary Photo-Acoustics Spectroscopy, a technology created in collaboration with NASA through multiple Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts. Any alternative vendor would be unable to replicate the PCM breadboard due to the proprietary nature of the design, potentially causing compatibility, schedule, and financial issues for the government. The recommendation highlights the impracticality of competition based on the unique technological requirements and established relationship with Vista Photonics, emphasizing the significance of sourcing from this specific vendor to meet project goals effectively.