99 -- Positioner for VERITAS Optical Reflector

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), operating under a grant from the Department of Energy, seeks a positioner system for the 10m VERITAS Optical Reflector. The positioner system shall support and point the Focal Plane Instrument (FPI) Optics Support System (OSS) to any point in the sky with fast slew and sidereal tracking capability. The positioner system will be composed of the positioner itself, the elevation structure, the positioner control system, a pedestal and a sole plate. The Contractor shall deliver one positioner system to the VERITAS site 40 miles south of Tucson, Arizona. SAO may purchase up to six more positioner systems to complete the VERITAS Array. Other contractors will provide the FPI, OSS, counterweights, and mirrors under separate contracts. This will be A firm-fixed price contract purchased under the procedures in FAR Part 12.6, Streamlined Procedures for Evaluation and Solicitation for Commercial Items. Offers will be evaluated on price, schedule, past performance, and ability to meet the technical specifications. The anticipated release date of the RFP is on or about 15 April 2002 with an anticipated proposal due date on or about 1 May 2002. The RFP and associated documents will be posted on FEDBIZOPPS. The anticipated award date is on or about 1 June 2002. The anticipated delivery date for the positioner system will be 6 months after award of the contract. The firm date for receipt of proposals will be stated in the RFP. Only written, fax, or email requests for a solicitation received directly from the requester are acceptable. No telephone requests for the solicitation will be accepted. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code and size standard are 334220 and 750 employees, respectively. All qualified responsible sources may submit an offer, which shall be considered by the agency.