Notice of Intent - Sole Source Extension - Glenn Engineering and Research Support (GEARS)

The NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) intends to issue a Sole Source extension to the existing Glenn Engineering and Research Support (GEARS) contract. The Sole Source extension will apply to the GEARS contractor HX5, LLC (HX5). HX5 is the only contractor capable of providing the essential and ongoing engineering and research support services required without a lapse in service. Continuity is critical due to the specialized knowledge needed regarding NASA policies, procedures, and the unique facilities at GRC.

GEARS is the primary contract whereby the Center receives engineering, research, and scientific support. This includes but is not limited to:

• Research and Engineering support – support to the GRC Core Competency areas: communications and intelligent systems, power, propulsion, materials and structures, and systems engineering and architecture
• Facilities, Testing, and Manufacturing Engineering Support
• Project Management Support
• Research and Engineering Support Environment
• Fundamental research on space or gravity dependent combustion and fluid systems
• Configuration/Data management and scheduling

NASA GRC is seeking an additional six‑month Sole Source deviation to extend the period of performance from March 31, 2027, through September 30, 2027. An option for one additional six‑month Sole Source deviation may be exercised if necessary, covering October 1, 2027, through March 31, 2028.

NASA is pursuing a new GEARS contract, however award of the follow‑on contract is not anticipated before the current contract expires on March 31, 2027.

This action is contemplated under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements.

Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort via email to Carrie Fisk, carrie.a.fisk@nasa.gov no later than 1:00 pm EST on November 5, 2026. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this acquisition on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.

NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/procurement/regs/Procurement-Ombuds-Comp-Advocate-Listing.pdf