99--UPDATE TO NASA'S SMCDS PROCUREMENT - JSC REQUIREMENT WILL BE SEPARATE

NASA has finalized the decision to exclude the Johnson Space Center (JSC) Mission Operations requirement from the upcoming Space Mission Communications and Data Services (SMCDS) solicitation. This adjustment follows the announcement made during the December 18, 2002 Industry Briefing. The SMCDS contract will replace the existing NASA Consolidated Space Operations Contract (CSOC), which is set to expire in December 2003. The draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for SMCDS is planned for release in March 2003, with the final RFP expected in April 2003. There are considerations for individual work package site visits shortly after the draft RFP release to provide further engagement opportunities. Additional information regarding the SMCDS procurement is available on NASA’s website, with the current page anticipated to transition from its existing URL to a new web address on February 1, 2003. This contract update signifies a structural change in how JSC Mission Operations will be managed, separating it from the broader SMCDS solicitation, potentially streamlining the acquisition approach for this particular function. The solicitation details and updates are accessible through the provided federal contract portal.