Study contract for fluid quick disconnectors

This contract involves a study focused on the development and assessment of a Gateway Fluid Quick Disconnect Coupler (GQDC) designed to support extravehicular and robotic activities on Gateway missions. The work encompasses conceptual design, interface development, risk mitigation, and preparation for future flight hardware procurement, with an emphasis on reducing risks associated with fluid transfer couplers used in thermal control systems. The scope includes delivering design approach reports, CAD models, and production assessments within a six-month period following authorization to proceed, with the primary performance location in Houston, Texas, and administrative oversight at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The contract emphasizes compliance with technical specifications derived from heritage ISS designs, operating within specified temperature, pressure, and fluid flow parameters, and mandates adherence to export controls and ITAR regulations. The solicitation is a small business set-aside under NAICS code 541330, with award criteria based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) approach. Proposals must demonstrate technical acceptability—meeting all specified design and performance requirements—to be considered, after which the lowest priced acceptable offer will be selected. The contractual clauses incorporate a comprehensive suite of FAR and NASA FAR supplement provisions covering security, ethics, labor standards, supply chain security, and responsible business practices. Delivery terms are FOB destination, with no explicit pricing or value established in the solicitation documents, and proposals are due by December 5, 2025, via email to the designated NASA contracting officer. The contract also includes standard representations and certifications, requiring offerors to maintain current SAM registration, disclose socioeconomic status, and affirm compliance with various federal regulations, though no specific pricing, packaging, or detailed inspection procedures are explicitly outlined beyond general contractual and technical standards.