Orion Cockpit Prototyping

NASA/Johnson Space Center (JSC) has a requirement for Orion Cockpit Prototyping. This requirement consists of providing human machine interface research and development activities to NASA for rapid prototyping Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) display and control concepts. This is accomplished by the creation of simulations for Orion MPCV display and electronic procedure formats, software display navigation schemes, and the hardware devices required to interface with the Orion MPCV software. These tasks also include supporting adaptation of the Orion cockpit concepts for future applicability to future human space flight Programs. NASA/JSC intends to purchase these services from Aerospace Applications North America (AANA), Houston, TX on a sole-source basis through an anticipated Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contract. The current contract period of performance ends Nov 30, 2019. The proposed period of performance for this follow on contract is Dec 1, 2019 through Nov 30, 2024. NASA received and evaluated the proposals from the current Joint Operations and Integrated System Technology (JOIST) contractors. Although potential reach back and capabilities in some areas were demonstrated, a thorough review across all responses determined that there are not capabilities and experience as it exists today to proceed with ordering this work under JOIST without introducing substantial schedule risks having the potential to impact other mission objectives. Introducing a new contractor also results in a large amount of duplication of cost which is not feasible under the cost constrained environment. As a result of the risks involved with an accelerated schedule, NASA has deemed it in the best interest to not utilize the JOIST contract. Additionally, the Orion Cockpit Prototyping tasks are in the critical path to Orion and Exploration Mission 2 under an accelerated Program schedule. It is also an integral part of this next phase (phase 5) of Orion Cockpit Prototyping work to further develop the tools and concepts created during the previous phases, CEV Cockpit Prototype Phases 1-3 and Orion Cockpit Prototyping Phase 4. AANA was the Phase 1-3 CEV Cockpit Prototyping contractor and is currently the Phase 4 Orion Cockpit prototyping contractor and demonstrates the experience in the above requirements and ability to perform on schedule. Due to the required knowledge of Phases 1-4 and lessons learned integration requirement, the Programs compressed timeframe, and AANA's extensive knowledge and expertise to design, build, and deliver in order to meet Program milestones, AANA is best positioned to perform these tasks without introducing schedule risk and severe duplication of costs. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. local time on May 15, 2019. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html