State-of-the-Art X-ray Grazing Incidence Optics
ID: 80MSFC25GrazingOpticsType: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATIONNATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATIONNASA MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTERHUNTSVILLE, AL, 35812, USA

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/dc56301557e34ae196d6fe768c11cd99/view
Timeline
    Description

    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking information from qualified vendors regarding the development of state-of-the-art X-ray grazing incidence optics. This procurement aims to enhance NASA's capabilities in X-ray imaging, which is crucial for various scientific and exploratory missions. The optics will play a significant role in advancing research and technology in space exploration and related fields. Interested parties can reach out to Kathy Cooper at kathy.cooper@nasa.gov or Neil Martin at neil.f.martin@nasa.gov for further details, with the opportunity being open for responses from potential suppliers.

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    Market Research_Optical System Supplier for DAISI Instrument_012125 final.pdf
    NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center is seeking information from potential suppliers for the development of advanced X-ray grazing incidence optics within a conventional Wolter-I configuration. The aim is to achieve arc-second angular resolution for space applications, relying on high-precision, space-qualified optical materials. The request targets all businesses, including small and minority-owned enterprises, to assess their capabilities in manufacturing segmented optics, optical mounts, and testing procedures. Key requirements include the ability to determine figure error and surface roughness with high accuracy, achieve specific polishing standards, and manage optical assembly and alignment for space-based instruments. Moreover, the notice invites interested firms to submit capability statements by February 7, 2025, indicating readiness and plans for prototype development within 24 months. This sources sought notice is part of NASA's effort to evaluate the market for high-performing optical solutions, ensuring alignment with current manufacturing capabilities and technical standards necessary for future scientific instruments. Responses should not include proprietary or export-controlled information, and the government is not committed to any contract based on the responses received.
    Market Research_Optical System Supplier for DAISI Instrument Amendment 1.pdf
    NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center is seeking information on the development of advanced X-ray grazing incidence optics within a Wolter-I optical system. This request targets potential suppliers, including small businesses and minority institutions, to gather capabilities for designing and manufacturing precision optical systems. Key requirements include achieving arc-second angular resolution, measuring figure error and surface roughness, and applying coatings to mirrors. The goal is to develop high-performance X-ray optics for space applications within a 24-month timeline. Interested parties must submit an eight-page capability statement detailing their methods and experience in optical alignment, fabrication processes, and stress mitigation strategies. The announcement is for planning purposes only, with no solicitation currently available. Responses are due by February 14, 2025, highlighting the importance of robust X-ray optics for future space-based science instruments.
    Market Research_Optical System Supplier for DAISI Instrument Amendment 2.pdf
    NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center is seeking information from industrial sources to develop advanced X-ray grazing incidence optics using Wolter-I optical systems. The goal is to achieve arc-second angular resolution in a space environment, emphasizing participation from small businesses and minority institutions to enhance competition and support underserved communities. Interested firms are invited to submit capability statements detailing their capacity to design, manufacture, align, and test segmented glass X-ray optics. Key requirements include precise measurement capabilities, advanced polishing techniques, optical assembly expertise, and access to measurement facilities. The notice outlines expectations for delivering a high-performance optical system prototype within 24 months. Submissions must include detailed descriptions of fabrication processes, assembly methods, and stress mitigation strategies. Responses are due by February 21, 2025, and the notice serves as a planning tool, not a solicitation. All submissions must avoid proprietary information and adhere to specified formatting guidelines.
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    State-of-the-Art X-ray Grazing Incidence Optics
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