Notice of Intent to Noncompetitively Acquire for Infrared Optical Spectrum Analyzer
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) has issued a Notice of Intent for a non-competitive acquisition of an Infrared Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA). NIST has identified Thorlabs as the only known source capable of meeting the specific technical requirements. Other interested sources are encouraged to respond by April 28, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET if they believe they can fulfill the requirements.
Purpose & Scope
NIST requires an OSA for characterizing metamaterial sensors and spectroscopic detection of drug molecules. The required OSA must have:
- Continuous spectral coverage from 1 µm to 5.6 µm.
- High spectral resolution of 2 GHz or better.
- Both fiber and free-space input options.
- A low noise floor of -85 dBm or better.
NIST conducted market research from February to April 2026, including a sources sought notice (NIST-SS26-93), which indicated Thorlabs (UEI: VCJKYBSL8DL8) is uniquely capable of providing the combination of broad spectral coverage, high spectral resolution, and low noise floor required.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (Notice of Intent for Non-Competitive Acquisition)
- NAICS Code: 334516
- Product Service Code: 6640 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies)
- Set-Aside: None
- Response Due: April 28, 2026, 3:00 PM ET
- Published: April 14, 2026
- Place of Performance: Gaithersburg, MD
Action for Industry
This is not a request for quotation or a solicitation. However, any sources believing they can meet NIST's minimum requirements are encouraged to respond by the deadline. Responses should include:
- Company Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from SAM.gov.
- Details on how the company can meet or exceed NIST's minimum requirements.
- Evidence of authorization if an authorized reseller of the product.
Contact Information
- Primary: Tracy Retterer (Tracy.retterer@nist.gov)
- Secondary: Forest Crumpler (forest.crumpler@nist.gov)