Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition (JOFOC) - Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) Engineering Development Unit (EDU) Refurbishment

This document is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (JOFOC) prepared by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) to award a sole-source new work modification to Northrop Grumman (NG). The contract, NNG11XA04C, is for the refurbishment and characterization of the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) Engineering Development Unit (EDU). The refurbishment aims to bring the ATMS EDU to a Mission Class D flight instrument level, serving as a contingency for JPSS missions and a demonstration mission (QuickSounder) for NOAA's future Low Earth Orbit (LEO) program. The estimated value of the award is . The statutory authority for this sole-source award is 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1), as implemented by FAR 6.302-1, citing "Only one responsible source." NG is deemed the only qualified vendor due to its unique knowledge, experience, and proprietary design of the ATMS EDU, which it originally built. No other company can meet the technical requirements, budget, and three-year launch readiness date. A notice of intent was published on beta.sam.gov, and no other sources expressed interest. The contracting officer determined the anticipated cost would be fair and reasonable after proposal evaluation and negotiation. This demonstration mission will help the government develop performance-based requirements for future competitive LEO program acquisitions.