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NASA/Ames Research Center (ARC) intends to increase the ceiling value of the Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity Contract 80ARC021D0002 for the Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) for Science Mission Directorate (SMD) Missions. NASA’s SMD is pursuing multiple robotic missions, such as Mars Sample Return (MSR) Sample Retrieval Lander (SRL), MSR Earth Entry Vehicle (EEV) and Dragonfly. Robust TPS with substantial ground and flight test heritage is required to ensure success of these missions. NASA ARC awarded 80ARC021D0002 to Fiber Material Inc. to build full-scale flight units comprised of Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA) aeroshells on a sole source basis pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1), and FAR 6.302-1, Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services will Satisfy Agency Requirements. The increase is necessary to continue ongoing and new mission critical work.

The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12.

Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort electronically via email to Nairi Freeman, Contracting Officer at nairi.freeman@nasa.gov no later than 5:00PM PDT on August 29, 2023. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this acquisition on a full and open basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.

NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/procurement/regs/Procurement-Ombuds-Comp-Advocate-Listing.pdf