Multi-Spectral Sensor
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 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a multi-spectral sensor and its integration with an existing Freefly Astro drone. This opportunity is a Total Small Business Set-Aside, issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) under solicitation number 1232SA26Q0649. Proposals are due by June 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a multi-spectral sensor capable of vegetation scanning, including five bands (Red, Green, Blue, Near Infrared, Red-Edge) and an additional thermal band for temperature flux detection. Key technical specifications include a resolution of 2064 x 1544, specific Ground Sample Distance (GSD) requirements (e.g., less than 6 cm at 400 ft for multispectral bands), a panchromatic band, and a DLS Light Sensor. The sensor must utilize a CFexpress memory card for data storage and be physically integrated/wired with the existing Freefly Astro drone. Detailed specifications are outlined in Attachment 2.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Anticipated Firm-Fixed-Price Requirements Contract
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (NAICS 336413, size standard 1,250)
- Solicitation Number: 1232SA26Q0649
- Questions Due: June 10, 2026, 12:00 PM Pacific Time
- Proposals Due: June 15, 2026, 4:00 PM Central Time
- Published: June 3, 2026
- Delivery: Within 30 days after award; early deliveries accepted.
Submission & Evaluation
- Submission: Quotations must be submitted electronically via email to jessica.pacheco@usda.gov. Submissions must include pricing, signatures, SAM Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), acknowledgment of any amendments, and a technical package detailing how all specifications will be met. Active SAM.gov registration is mandatory. Quotes must remain firm for 90 calendar days.
- Evaluation: Award will be based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) criteria. Technical acceptability will be rated as "acceptable" or "unacceptable" based on the ability to meet specifications and demonstrate a sound approach. Past performance will also be evaluated using information from past contracts, USDA sources, and CPARS. The award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government.
Additional Notes
This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items, incorporating numerous FAR and AGAR clauses by reference. Offerors are not required to meet a specific qualification requirement to be eligible for award.