Science on a Sphere (SOS) exhibit
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 Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has awarded a firm-fixed-price contract to B/W Color Prints LLC (dba BWC Visual Technology) for the turnkey installation of a Science On a Sphere (SOS) visualization system at the NOAA Satellite Operations Facility (NSOF) in Suitland, MD.
Scope of Work
This contract covers the complete turnkey installation of the Science On a Sphere (SOS) exhibit. Key components include:
- Provision of proprietary SOS hardware and software licensing, exclusively authorized under CRADA CR-188.
- Specialized technical installation utilizing the patented Alignment Pro system.
- Ancillary facility improvements and site preparation necessary to support the exhibit environment, such as glass double doors, wall murals, and sphere mounting points.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price
- Period of Performance: 12 months from Notice to Proceed (NTP).
- Awardee: B/W Color Prints LLC (dba BWC Visual Technology)
- Award Published: May 5, 2026
Set-Aside & Authority
This action was conducted as a sole-source procurement under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 1901, as implemented by FAR 12.201-1 Simplified Procedures. The sole source justification cited the proprietary nature of the SOS system and exclusive licensing rights held by BWC Visual Technology under a CRADA active through March 2029.
Justification & Market Research
A Notice of Intent to Sole Source was published on SAM.gov on February 6, 2026, and no responses were received from other capable vendors. Market research confirmed that BWC Visual Technology holds exclusive rights to the SOS system and the