Space Weather Next L1 Series Suprathermal Ion Sensor (STIS)

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)/Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announce the award of the Space Weather Next L1 Series Suprathermal Ion Sensor (STIS). The L1 Series Suprathermal Ion Sensor is an ion spectrometer device that measures ions across a broad range of energies to characterize solar ejecta including Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), co-rotating interaction regions (CIRs) and interplanetary shocks.

In particular, the Suprathermal Ion Sensor is a low energy charged particle detector that is capable of measuring the ion flux population as a function of energy. This ion population with energies higher than that of the bulk plasma are produced by local solar acceleration as well as acceleration from a CME shock front. Analysis of these spectra can aid in estimating the arrival time and strength of CMEs shocks.

Tasks include the design, analyze, develop, fabricate, integrate, test, verify, evaluate, support launch, supply and maintain the L1 Series Suprathermal Ion Sensor is an ion spectrometer device that measures ions across a broad range of energies to characterize solar ejecta including Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), co-rotating interaction regions (CIRs) and interplanetary shocks. This contract was awarded on a full and open competitive basis. The contract type is a cost-reimbursement plus no fee.

This contract will operate in a very dynamic environment that entails a complex and dynamic scope of work that involves cost, schedule, and technical performance risk. Per FAR 16.302(b), a cost contract may be appropriate for research and development work, particularly with nonprofit educational institutions or other nonprofit organizations. Therefore, a Cost Plus No Fee contract type is best suited for mission success of the procurement.