Simulation and Advanced Software Services II (SASS II)
ID: 80JSC024SASS2Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATIONNATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATIONNASA JOHNSON SPACE CENTERHOUSTON, TX, 77058, USA

NAICS

Custom Computer Programming Services (541511)

PSC

SUPPORT- PROFESSIONAL: ENGINEERING/TECHNICAL (R425)
Timeline
    Description

    NASA's Johnson Space Center is seeking qualified vendors to provide Simulation and Advanced Software Services II (SASS II), aimed at enhancing capabilities in simulation and software development for various space exploration programs, including Artemis and Orion. The procurement focuses on specialized services in areas such as robotics, avionics, vehicle guidance, and advanced software technologies, which are critical for supporting NASA's missions and ensuring effective human-robot interactions. The current contract, valued at approximately $100 million, is set to expire in September 2025, with the new contract anticipated to run from October 2025 to September 2030. Interested parties must submit their capability statements by June 7, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Carlos Roman at carlos.roman@nasa.gov or Yushu Mao at yushu.mao@nasa.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
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    The document outlines the draft Statement of Work (SOW) for the Simulation and Advanced Software Services II (SASS II) contract, aimed at providing comprehensive engineering simulation and software development support for NASA's Johnson Space Center. Key services include simulation model development for robotics, biomechanics, spacecraft navigation, and advanced flight software, particularly for programs like the International Space Station and Artemis missions. The contractor's responsibilities encompass contract management, information technology security, and adherence to safety protocols. The contractor will implement various simulation methodologies, including non-real-time and real-time human-in-the-loop simulations, and support avionics flight software development with a focus on machine learning and advanced human-computer interaction systems. Essential requirements include maintaining and upgrading simulation models to meet engineering analysis needs and developing cutting-edge interfaces that enhance user interaction during missions. The SOW emphasizes the need for contractors to follow established engineering standards while enabling innovative technologies and intelligent systems that support human spaceflight operations. Through its detailed sections, the document serves to guide potential contractors on expectations, thereby facilitating successful proposals for government RFPs associated with NASA's advanced exploration efforts.
    The document is a Vendor Capability Matrix that solicits vendor responses related to their alignment with the Draft Statement of Work (SOW). Vendors are instructed to indicate their capabilities by marking an "X" in designated sections corresponding to specific areas of expertise. The matrix includes several categories such as Contract Management, Information Management, Safety and Health Management, Simulation Services, Product Descriptions, and various advanced software technology systems. Most sections, including management and simulation services, denote "N/A to RFI," suggesting they are not applicable to the current request for information. However, several product descriptions highlight key simulation services like Robotics and Biomechanics, Space-Based Vehicle Modeling, and Graphics Simulation, indicating critical areas where vendors are expected to demonstrate capabilities. The document serves as a tool for assessing the readiness and suitability of vendors in responding to government RFPs, particularly in technological and simulation-based services, guiding the selection process in compliance with required capabilities.
    NASA's Johnson Space Center hosted the Simulation and Advanced Software Services II (SASS II) Industry Day on June 20, 2024, to promote competition and inform industry stakeholders about upcoming procurement opportunities. Led by a team of NASA officials, the agenda included an overview of the current contract, potential future contracts, technical scopes, and an introduction to the vision of the Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division. The current contract under review is a cost-plus fixed fee agreement with MacLean Engineering, set to end in September 2025, while the proposed SASS II contract will span from October 2025 to September 2030. The document highlights the need for advanced simulation services, including robotic systems, human biomechanical representations, and avionics software. A particular focus is placed on enhancing human-robot interactions and software development for missions within NASA's Artemis and Orion programs. Participants were encouraged to submit questions electronically by June 24, 2024, for official responses to be posted on relevant government platforms. NASA aims to integrate industry feedback into its procurement strategy, seeking to leverage competition and innovation in achieving its objectives for space exploration. This Industry Day indicates NASA's commitment to transparent engagement with potential contractors in its advanced software services sector.
    The Simulation and Advanced Software Services II (SASS II) Industry Day/Q&A held on June 20, 2024, provided critical information for potential offerors regarding upcoming contract opportunities with NASA. Key topics covered included how to identify subcontracting opportunities, guidelines for teaming arrangements, and expectations for task order allocations. Offerors can utilize the Interested Parties List (IPL) for partner searching and will have opportunities to meet with stakeholders during the Industry Day. The SASS II contract anticipates yearly task orders, focusing on areas such as digital twinning and specific software tools. NASA is open to alternative tools as long as they meet contract requirements and will evaluate past performance extensively. The anticipated contract value and strategy have yet to be finalized, with ongoing assessments on small business set-asides and acquisition types. The document emphasizes that effective communication and adherence to FAR/NFS guidelines will facilitate successful proposals and mitigate compliance challenges. Offerors are encouraged to prepare thoroughly for the RFP process by demonstrating capabilities and aligning with the government’s mission needs. Overall, the SASS II initiative showcases NASA’s commitment to advancing software and simulation technologies while engaging with industry partners.
    The SASS II Interested Parties List, dated August 14, 2024, identifies various companies interested in government RFPs and federal grants. The list includes contact information and business classifications for each participant, highlighting small businesses (SB), veteran-owned small businesses (VOSB), women-owned small businesses (WOSB), education-based businesses (EDWOSB), and historically underutilized business zones (HUBZone). Notable entries include MacLean Engineering & Applied Technologies, LLC, TMC Technologies of West Virginia, and Horizon Video Productions, Inc. The document facilitates the connection between government entities and diverse service providers, showcasing a wide range of capabilities from engineering to IT solutions. By providing information on company names, addresses, contacts, and business types, the document aims to encourage participation from various sectors, thus promoting inclusivity and competition in securing government contracts. This strategic approach aligns with federal initiatives to support diverse business ownership while enhancing the quality of services rendered to government agencies.
    The document outlines the procedures for obtaining access to export-controlled scientific and technical information from NASA. It specifies that individuals must submit their request through an authorized company manager who verifies the provided information for accuracy. Companies are responsible for adhering to U.S. export regulations and must include details such as the full company name, address, and CAGE code. Additionally, they must list all individuals requesting access, distinguishing between U.S. persons and non-U.S. persons, specifying citizenship, and place of birth. For foreign nationals from designated countries, compliance with Individual Technology Transfer Control Plans (I-TTCP) along with Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA) is mandatory. Non-designated country nationals must adhere to specific certification requirements. The emphasis is on the company’s responsibility to ensure adherence to export regulations, highlighting the importance of comprehensive record-keeping and verification in the access process.
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