High-resolution, high-throughput spectrograph
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 Department of the Army, specifically the Detonation Science and Modeling Branch (FCDD-RLA-WA) of the Weapons Sciences Division of the Army Research Directorate (ARD) of the Army Research Laboratory (ARL), requires one high-resolution, high-throughput spectrograph. This is a Presolicitation Notice indicating the intent to issue a formal Request for Quotation (RFQ) for commercial products and services. Responses are due by July 1, 2026, at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.
Scope of Work
The required spectrograph must feature an intensified camera and a continuous wavelength range from 180-1100 nm, capable of detecting C line at 247 nm and O line at 777 nm. It needs a minimum resolving power (λ/Δλ) of at least 4000, with a modular design allowing for user-interchangeable grating cassettes and detectors to improve resolving power to at least 50,000. Key components include a Gen II (or comparable) ICCD detector with S25 18mm photocathode for UV/VIS/NIR sensitivity, adjustable gate pulse delay (0 ns to 500 µs in 5 ns steps), and a minimum instrument gate width of 50 ns. The design must incorporate a large f-number (at least f/10) on the input collimator and a small f-number (less than f/3) on the detector focusing optics for high throughput, along with a large spectrograph demagnification factor (0.2x or greater). It must also have focus adjusters, the ability to trigger using a q-switch signal from a neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet laser, solarization resistant fiber optic cable, and all necessary interface software and hardware for calibration, control, and linearized wavelength spectrum production. The unit, including the detector, must weigh less than 40 lbs and have dimensions under 20 inches in width, length, and height. It must include shipping, insurance, and a minimum one-year warranty.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation Notice (FAR 5.101)
- Anticipated Award Date: July 31, 2026
- Response Due: July 1, 2026, by 3:00 PM Eastern Time
- Published Date: June 16, 2026
Eligibility / Set-Aside
- Set-Aside: None. This is a proposed competitive action, and all responsible sources may submit a quotation.
Submission & Evaluation
The Government intends to issue a formal Request for Quotation (RFQ) in accordance with FAR Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Products and Commercial Services. Responses to this notice should be emailed to adaleta.dougherty2.civ@army.mil.
Additional Notes
- PSC Code: 6640 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies)
- NAICS Code: 334516