Picosecond Laser

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking information from industry regarding the availability of picosecond pulsed lasers capable of synchronization with quantum network clocks for use in generating entangled photon pairs via spontaneous parametric down-conversion. This request is part of a market research effort under Sources Sought Notice NB676020-26-01971 to evaluate the capability of both small and other-than-small businesses to meet NIST's technical requirements, with no intent to obligate funding or enter into a contract at this stage. The laser must be compact and suitable for deployment at NIST’s Gaithersburg site, with anticipated delivery, installation, and training to be completed within twelve weeks of order receipt. Respondents are required to submit detailed information including company details, business size certification under NAICS 334516, SAM.gov registration status, and suggestions for improving the draft technical specifications to enhance competition and clarity. Responses must not contain proprietary, classified, or confidential data and are limited to ten pages excluding the cover page and standard commercial pricing. Companies must provide suggestions for evaluation factors for a potential future acquisition, include catalog pricing if available, and confirm compliance with FAR clause 52.219-14 if operating as a small business. Additionally, firms with existing GSA Multiple Award Schedule contracts or other federal agreements are encouraged to submit documentation. Team submissions must include complete information for all participating entities. All responses are voluntarily provided and will be used solely for market research to inform a future solicitation, which may be posted on SAM.gov or GSA eBuy. NIST retains full rights to use all submitted information and is under no obligation to provide feedback or award a contract based on responses. The deadline for submissions is July 16, 2026.