R--LOW SPEED WIND TUNNEL TESTING

NASA/JSC has a requirement for low speed wind tunnel testing for AerodynamicTechnology Studies. Tests include providing engineering data to support sudden Shuttleprogram changes, such as crew egress modifications, assimilation of the drag chute intothe Shuttle design, and design changes to the thruster motor covers. The low speed windtunnel must also be able to accommodate both the NASA/JSC Shuttle vehicle and testrequirements for other proposed space transportation vehicles. Additionally, the tunnelmust also be able to test smaller component parts individually, i.e., parachute systems,thruster motor covers, and release mechanisms. The contractor is required to operate thetunnel by installing the test model, acquiring data, reducing data, and removing the testmodel from the tunnel. NASA/JSC intends to purchase the items on a sole-source basis from Texas EngineeringExperimental Station (TEES). The TEES wind tunnel facility meets all required agencytechnical capabilities for testing for complex space transportation issues accurately.TEES has the ability to accommodate wind tunnel testing in a test section comprised of aminimum cross section of 7 feet by 10 feet. A test section of this size will accommodatemany of the past Shuttle models used, and various other conceptual space transportationvehicle models. It also affords the Government a reasonable scale for future models.TEES' low speed wind tunnel is the only wind tunnel in close proximity to NASA/JSC thatcan accommodate both the NASA/JSC Shuttle vehicle, and test requirements for otherproposed space transportation vehicles.The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. See Note26.Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform theeffort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. local timeon August 11, 2010. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for thepurpose 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 opencompetition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretionof 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.An Ombudsman has been appointed. See NASA Specific Note "B".Any referenced notes may be viewed at the following URLs linked below.