Spacecraft Structures, from Concept to Launch | Live/in-person instructor-led training
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)/NSSC intends to issue a sole source contract to INSTAR ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING, INC. for "Spacecraft Structures, from Concept to Launch" live/in-person instructor-led training. This special notice is to inform the public of NASA's intent, as INSTAR ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING, INC. has been determined to be the sole provider of this specific training. Interested organizations may submit capabilities to challenge this sole source determination. Responses are due by 12 p.m. Central Standard Time on May 5, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a comprehensive, 3-day (24-hour) intensive technical short course on the design, analysis, and verification of spacecraft structures. The training aims to enhance the engineering workforce's understanding of structural requirements, failure modes, and risk assessment to reduce mission costs and ensure success. Key topics include launch environments, structural integrity, stress analysis, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), preliminary design, the Loads-Cycle process, Coupled Loads Analysis (CLA), verification, quality assurance, and final risk assessment.
Requirements & Deliverables
- Instructor: An expert with a minimum of 30 years of experience in aerospace structural engineering and a proven track record with NASA or similar space agencies.
- Course Materials: Each participant must receive a digital or printed copy of the "SCS Course Book" (latest revision: September 2025).
- Curriculum: Must align with established industry principles, including the "Ten Principles for Effective Engineering in the Space Industry."
- Performance Standards: Successful course delivery to NASA engineers and managers, completion of all eight primary modules, and positive participant evaluations.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (Sole Source Intent)
- NAICS Code: 611430 (Lectures For Training)
- Set-Aside: Not Applicable (Sole Source)
- Response Due: May 5, 2026, by 12 p.m. CST
- Published: May 1, 2026
- Place of Performance: NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC)
- Procuring Center: NASA/NSSC
Evaluation
Capabilities and qualifications submitted by interested organizations will be evaluated solely to determine whether to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A decision by the Government not to compete this effort is at its sole discretion.
Additional Notes
The Government intends to acquire commercial items and services using FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 13 procedures. Oral communications are not acceptable. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The primary point of contact is Sara Jusino-Terry at sara.a.jusino-terry@nasa.gov.