Ku-Band Geostationary Satellite Transponder Bandwidth

The Department of Commerce NIST is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for Ku-Band geostationary satellite transponder bandwidth to support the continuation of its Two-Way Satellite Time and Frequency Transfer (TWSTFT) network without interruption. This effort is not a solicitation for quotes or proposals, and no responses will be accepted for award purposes at this time; the purpose is solely to identify potential vendors capable of providing the required service. The acquisition seeks a one-year bandwidth service beginning November 27, 2026, with full authorization to transmit on a geostationary satellite transponder due by November 20, 2026. The service must meet strict technical specifications, including uplink frequencies between 14.0 GHz and 14.5 GHz, downlink frequencies between 10.95 GHz and 12.5 GHz, BPSK modulation at a 2.5 Mc/s symbol rate, approximately 4 MHz occupied bandwidth, and a minimum EIRP of 42 dBW. The transponder must be located between 30°W and 45°W longitude and be fully compatible with existing TimeTech SATRE modems. A signed letter of supply from the satellite transponder owner/operator is required to guarantee availability, and vendors must comply with all transmission control requirements issued by the owner. Responses must include the company name providing the service, the manufacturer, country of origin, technical data sheets demonstrating experience, typical lead time, and other relevant details, limited to four pages and submitted electronically to deionne.jones@nist.gov by the posted deadline. Proprietary information must be clearly marked, and marketing materials are explicitly excluded from consideration. Payment, when a contract is eventually awarded, will follow Net 30 terms in arrears, with annual service billed monthly across three collaboration members: NIST (25%), USNO (25%), and PTB Germany (50%). Full payment is contingent upon successful installation, testing, demonstration of technical compliance, and submission of a proper invoice. The NIST POC or COR has seven days to review and accept or request revisions on deliverables. The procurement is classified under NAICS code 517410 for Satellite Telecommunications, and the office is located in Gaithersburg, MD.