Sources Sought Notice for Mid-IR Optical Frequency Comb
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) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice for Mid-IR Optical Frequency Comb Systems. This effort aims to identify potential sources for commercial products and services critical for advancing measurement science, metrology, and applications in chip manufacturing, space, defense, and satellite industries. Responses are requested via email to the Primary Point of Contact, preferably before December 3, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires Optical Frequency Comb Systems to perform broadband spectroscopy and spectroradiometer calibrations. Specific needs include systems for the long-wave infrared wavelength range (5 µm to 100 µm) and for improving laser diagnostics in semiconductor research and development. These systems should enable quantitative detection of trace species and generate broadband spectral reference data. The required wavelength regions are mid-wave infrared (approx. 2.6 µm to 5 µm) and far-wave infrared (approx. 5 µm to >15 µm). A total of three (3) systems are sought.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: December 3, 2026 (preferably before)
- Published: November 19, 2025
- Note: This is for market research only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract. No solicitation is currently available.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested sources should submit responses via email to the Primary Point of Contact. Responses should not contain proprietary information and must be in Microsoft Word 365, Microsoft Excel 365, or .pdf format. To be considered for any future solicitation, entities must be registered and "active" in SAM.gov.
Additional Notes
Respondents must provide company information, details on recommended equipment (manufacturer, model, technical specifications), performance capabilities, customization limits, and any aspects of the notice they cannot meet. Information on manufacturing location (US or foreign), small business status, and alternative NAICS codes is requested. Details on available services (installation, training, maintenance), standard terms and conditions of sale, facility renovation services, pricing, existing contract vehicles, and past customers are also requested. NIST reserves the right to use all information provided for any purpose deemed necessary and legally appropriate.