Ultra Low Noise Laser
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), under the Department of Commerce, has issued a Sources Sought Notice for Ultra Low Noise Laser Systems. This market research aims to identify vendors capable of providing two such systems to support research in quantum sensing and timekeeping within the Microsystems and Nanotechnology Division. Responses are due by June 12, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
NIST requires two ultra-low-noise laser systems meeting specific technical specifications:
- Center Wavelength: 1550 nm (+/-15 nm), with stronger consideration for 1556.2 nm.
- Output Power: >100 mW at laser output.
- Lorentzian Linewidth: <250 Hz.
- Relative Intensity Noise (RIN): <-155 dBc/Hz at 10 MHz offset.
- Sidemode Suppression Ratio: >60 dB.
- Output Isolator: At least 25 dB isolation.
- Wavelength Tuning: Ability to tune by at least 25 pm.
- Modulation: External AC/DC modulation of laser current (20 MHz bandwidth) and slow temperature modulation (DC to 1 Hz).
- Housing: Benchtop housing with control electronics and 110V power supply.
- Output Connector: Bulkhead FC/APC or pigtailed PM fiber with FC/APC.
- Warranty: Minimum 12 months. All items must be new; used, remanufactured, experimental, prototype, or gray market items are not acceptable.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS Code: 334516 Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: June 12, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: June 12, 2026
- Place of Performance: Gaithersburg, MD
Response Requirements
Respondents should provide the following information, not exceeding 4 pages:
- Company name, address, contact info, and UEI (if SAM registered).
- Equipment details: Manufacturer, model, technical specifications, country of manufacturing, and authorized reseller status (if applicable).
- Performance capabilities, potential customization, and any limitations.
- Identify any specifications that cannot be met and suggest improvements.
- State if equipment is US-manufactured and any future manufacturing location changes.
- Indicate small business status for NAICS 334516, or suggest an alternative NAICS.
- Describe available services (installation, training, maintenance).
- Outline standard terms and conditions of sale (delivery, FOB, warranty).
- State if facility renovation services are offered.
- Provide published price, discount, or rebate information.
- Identify any existing Federal Supply Schedule or other contracts.
- List customer references (public/private sector).
- Any other valuable information for NIST.
- State if additional information or a meeting with NIST is required.
Important Notes
This is for market research only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract. The Government is not obligated to pay for information provided. Responses will not be considered an adequate response to any future solicitation.