High-Performance Optical Atomic Clocks
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
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting a Sources Sought market research effort to identify vendors capable of providing two High-Performance Optical Atomic Clocks in Boulder, CO. This is not a request for quotation or proposals, but rather a tool to determine potential and eligible business firms, including small businesses, and the method of acquisition. Responses are due by June 23, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks information on vendors that can supply two High-Performance Optical Atomic Clocks. The detailed specifications and requirements for these items, including planning, shipping, installation, warranty, training, inspection, and maintenance, are outlined in the attached document, "OU68-FY26-493-NEW Requirements and Specifications_chronos.docx." This document is crucial for understanding the technical and logistical needs.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: All Small Business Set-aside categories will be considered. NIST is seeking responses from ALL responsible sources, including large and small businesses, to identify potential set-aside opportunities.
- NAICS: 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Response Due: June 23, 2026, 8:00 PM ET
- Published: June 10, 2026
- Place of Performance: Boulder, CO
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to four (4) pages or less, to Angela Hitt at angela.hitt@nist.gov. Responses must include:
- Name of the company providing the product(s).
- Name of the company manufacturing the product.
- Country of origin or manufacture of the product.
- Spec/data sheets and examples demonstrating experience in meeting requirements.
- Typical lead time for delivery after order receipt.
- Any other relevant information for developing minimum specifications and finalizing market research.
Evaluation
Responses will be utilized to determine if any Small Business Set-aside opportunities exist and to identify potential firms, of all sizes, who manufacture the clocks in the U.S. This market research will inform NIST's decision on whether to conduct a competitive or non-competitive procurement.
Additional Notes
This announcement is for planning purposes only and does not commit the Government to award a contract. The information is DRAFT and subject to change. The Government will not pay for information received.