Provide a Co-Investigator in support of Imaging X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE)

MSFC intends to enter into a sole-source contract with Stanford University in support of the Imaging X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) Project. Throughout the IXPE Phase B mission (and Phases C-D, as required) Stanford University will provide a Co-Investigator who shall be a member of the IXPE Science Working Group and assist the IXPE Principal Investigator in defining the scientific scope of the mission which includes, where possible, participation in technical and programmatic reviews, selection of targets and the scientific observing program. Stanford will lead the IXPE Galactic X-ray Source Theory Program with emphasis on the potential for polarization measurements to distinguish amongst competing theoretical models. This decision is made pursuant to FAR 6.302-1, only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements, which implements the authority for 10 U.S.C. - 2304 (c)(1). Competition is impractical for the following reasons: Command of the fundamental science principles of x-ray astronomy and instrumentation is essential to enable the contractor to contribute to and lead project risk management, re-planning, alternatives analyses, or trade studies. The proposed project and engineering management work requires a thorough understanding of optics manufacturing and metrology, and NASA scientific requirements to enable the IXPE team to implement its project baseline. The Co-Investigator at Stanford University has experience and scientific fluency in populations of gamma ray sources, radio pulsars, supernova and associated products, instrumentation for fast optical variability, and pulsar timing and gravity wave searches leading to a preeminent qualification to support this effort. IXPE's low risk plans and management approach were key factors in its selection and utilization of Stanford University for the efforts identified will prove key in this regard. An implementation team familiar with these plans, their basis, and MSFC's capabilities to produce required hardware presents the project and Center with the best opportunity to meet Science Mission Directorate commitments and expectations. Award of this effort to another contractor would fail to meet project requirements. The Government will not pay for any information provided under this announcement. Contractors must have a current registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) http://www.sam.gov. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than the identified response date. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purposes 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 open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.