Request for Information: Modular and Sustainable mK Cryogenic Equipment
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 Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking concepts for modular, interconnected cryocoolers that achieve sub-kelvin temperatures without using helium-3. DARPA is interested in disruptive technologies significantly beyond the current state of the art. Responses are due February 16, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
DARPA MTO is conducting market research to understand the feasibility and application space of advanced cryocooling equipment. The agency is specifically looking for disruptive technology concepts for milli-kelvin (mK) cryogenic equipment that eliminates the need for helium-3 in sub-kelvin stages. This RFI aims to inform future program development and is not a solicitation for proposals.
Key Areas of Interest
- Sub-Kelvin Cooling Mechanisms without Helium-3: Concepts for cryocooling solutions operating in the mK range without helium-3, including underlying physics, anticipated operating temperature, cooling capacity, efficiency, SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power), and development challenges.
- Modular Cryocooling Architectures: Progress in uniform, modular cryocooler architectures with interfaces for connecting to other cryocoolers at different temperature stages, including advancements in thermally insulative and electrically conductive interconnects.
- Microsystem Advancements: How next-generation cryocoolers could enable new defense and commercial microsystem capabilities, particularly those limited by SWaP constraints, identifying enabled capabilities, potential platforms, and quantifiable advancements.
Submission & Evaluation
- Due Date: February 16, 2026, 5:00 p.m. ET.
- Submission: Unclassified responses via email to DARPA-SN-26-40@darpa.mil. Classified responses require prior coordination.
- Format: Single integrated response, unprotected Microsoft Word/PowerPoint or PDF, limited to 9 pages (excluding cover page and references), 11-point font, 1-inch margins.
- Eligibility: Responses are welcome from private/public companies, individuals, universities, research centers, not-for-profit institutions, and U.S. Government-sponsored labs.
- Evaluation: DARPA may conduct individual discussions with respondents. This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None
- Response Due: February 16, 2026
- Published: January 27, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for information and planning purposes only. No reimbursement for costs incurred in responding, and DARPA is under no obligation to acknowledge receipt or provide feedback.