Stennis Space Center (SSC) 60th Anniversary Manuscript

NASA's Stennis Space Center is seeking a contractor to prepare a scholarly, analytical short book-length manuscript that chronicles the center's history from 1997 to 2017, building on previous work done by Mack R. Herring. The manuscript is intended to be approximately 200 pages and will provide a comprehensive view of the center’s evolution during this period, including its transition from the Space Shuttle program to the Space Launch System program, its role in commercial engine testing, and the expansion of its facilities and workforce. The project will also highlight social and local historical aspects, such as the relocation of five towns during the center’s construction, and capture perspectives from scientists, engineers, military personnel, policymakers, enthusiasts, and the general public. This initiative ties into SSC’s 60th anniversary in 2021. The contract is expected to be awarded on or around April 17, 2018, with a performance period of 12 months plus an option for an additional 12 months. NASA plans to conduct the procurement under a full and open competition following FAR Part 12 guidelines for acquisition of commercial items, using the NAICS code 541720. The place of performance is at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, with designated points of contact including a contracting officer and a division chief. The solicitation was updated from 80SSC018R0001 to 80SSC018R0004, and formal solicitation activities were anticipated to begin in December 2017.