Microwave Multimode (MWM) Continuous Paving, Horizontal, and Vertical Construction Techniques
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Marshall Space Flight Center has published a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (JOFOC) for contract modification P00004 to contract 80MSFC24CA009. This JOFOC supports the award of additional work for Microwave Multimode (MWM) Continuous Paving, Horizontal, and Vertical Construction Techniques to Dr. Holly Shulman.
Purpose of JOFOC
This notice, posted as required by FAR 5.302, explains the rationale for awarding additional work to a specific contractor without full and open competition. The primary goal of the additional work is to advance the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of a microwave system to Level 6, targeting a 2028 flight opportunity.
Scope of Additional Work
The modification includes several critical tasks:
- Designing a vacuum-compatible microwave source.
- Optimizing a susceptor array.
- Developing dust/heat shielding.
Sole Source Rationale
Dr. Holly Shulman has been identified as the only entity possessing the unique experience, proprietary formulas, and specialized equipment necessary for this work, particularly concerning lunar and Martian regolith simulants. Market research conducted via SAM.gov notices on July 18, 2025, and January 22, 2024, yielded no responses indicating other capable sources. One response from Redwire Space, Inc. expressed interest in collaboration, not as a direct competitor. The justification is based on FAR 6.302-1, "Only One Responsible Source."
Contract Details
- Contract Number: 80MSFC24CA009
- Modification: P00004
- Existing Contract Period: March 29, 2024, through December 31, 2025 (unaffected by this modification).
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Product/Service Code: AR12 (Space R&D Services; Space Flight, Research And Supporting Activities; Applied Research).
Additional Information
This notice serves as a public record of the justification for the sole-source award and is not a solicitation for new offers. For inquiries, contact Cynthia Hubbard at cynthia.a.hubbard@nasa.gov.