A--CONTINUATION OF SPACE FLIGHT SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATIONS ON THEINTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

NASA's Glenn Research Center plans to extend the current contract with Zin Technologies Inc. through the end of 2013 to continue providing development and operational support for space flight systems, associated support equipment, and ground development activities that support ongoing and future space flight missions. This extension is justified under FAR clause 6.302-1 and the authority of 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) as only one responsible source—Zin Technologies Inc.—can meet the agency’s requirements due to their unique experience and proven expertise in developing and operating space flight hardware. Zin Technologies has been the prime contractor on the SpaceDOC contract, which is scheduled to end on December 31, 2013. The additional work required for calendar year 2013 aligns with current schedule and budget commitments associated with the International Space Station Research and Human Research Programs. Given these constraints, Zin Technologies is deemed the only viable contractor capable of continuing the work without disruption. The contract extension is a continuation of existing efforts within the scope of the total small business set-aside program, under NAICS code 927110, emphasizing the strategic importance of maintaining continuity and leveraging existing contractor expertise to support NASA's spaceflight initiatives.