Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) Project
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) intends to award a sole-source, Firm Fixed Price, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract to CIMEL ELECTRONIQUE for Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) Project photometers and related parts. This 5-year requirement is justified under 10 U.S.C 3204(a)(1) as CIMEL is the only responsible source for the standardized equipment. Interested organizations may submit capabilities by June 23, 2026, 4:00 PM EST.
Purpose & Background
NASA/GSFC requires several models of the CIMEL CE318-T family of Sun-Sky-Lunar Spectral Photometers, along with parts for their repair, maintenance, and upgrade. These instruments are crucial for monitoring aerosol optical properties and providing a uniform database for NASA’s global climate change and satellite validation programs. The AERONET Project, established over 30 years ago, relies on the standardization provided by CIMEL's CE318-T instrument, which is specifically designed for the program's requirements.
Scope of Work
The contract covers the procurement of new Cimel Sun-Sky-Lunar Scanning photometers, identical in function and electronically compatible with the existing network of over 600 instruments. Key requirements include:
- Instrument Capabilities: Measuring direct solar and lunar irradiances, and sky radiances.
- Environmental Resilience: Reliable operation in harsh conditions (-20 to 50 degrees C).
- Data Communication: Multiple options (geostationary satellites, cellular, PC/internet).
- Automated Protocols: For solar zenith and scattering angles, supporting day and night measurements, including lunar observations.
- Compatibility: With existing AERONET network components and robot infrastructure.
- Performance Standards: Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) > 10,000/1, pointing accuracy ±0.05°, unattended operation up to eight weeks.
- Special Requirements: Broad spectral range (UV to short wave infrared), polarization, compatibility with earlier CE318 models, specific optical components, advanced control box (32 GB SD card), tracking robot (360° capability, 20-second rotation), 32-bit microprocessor, battery/solar power, and sealed design.
Contract Details
- Type: Firm Fixed Price, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ)
- Duration: 5 years (October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2031)
- Set-Aside: None (Sole-source acquisition)
- Acquisition Method: Commercial product or service using FAR Part 12.
- Place of Performance: Radiometers to be built at the Contractor facility (Paris, FR) and sent to NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.
Submission Requirements
- Capabilities Due: June 23, 2026, 4:00 PM EST
- Submission Method: Electronically via email to Kermit Stanbach, Contracting Specialist, at Kermit.S.Stanbach@nasa.gov.
- Purpose: Submissions will be evaluated solely to determine if the acquisition can be conducted on a competitive basis. A determination not to compete is at the Government's discretion.
Additional Information
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.