3rd Generation (3G) Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) Integration and Support Services
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a Sole Source Justification for 3rd Generation (3G) Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) Integration and Support Services. This action aims to secure specialized services for integrating and supporting 3G ESPs into Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs) to monitor harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the Great Lakes and Alaska.
Purpose & Justification
This justification supports a sole-source contract award to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). Market research, including a sources sought notice, indicated that MBARI is the only responsible source capable of meeting the requirements. MBARI has uniquely developed and optimized the 3G ESP-SPR system since 2017, possessing the necessary expertise and infrastructure. This acquisition is critical for NOAA to comply with 33 U.S.C. 53, which mandates advancing scientific understanding and detection of HABs. The justification is made in accordance with FAR 12.301(a)(2) and 41 U.S.C. 1901.
Scope of Work
The required services include:
- Integration, deployment, calibration, embedding, and use of a 3G ESP with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) into a USV.
- Monitoring HABs, phytoplankton community dynamics, and phycotoxins in the Great Lakes and Alaska.
- Integrating a water capture sampling system for the 3G ESP onto the USV.
- Providing comprehensive support for the system during mission deployments.
Contract Details
- Type: Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order
- Period of Performance: One base year and two option years (totaling three years)
- Set-Aside: Sole Source (Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition)
- Published: June 1, 2026
Additional Notes
The government conducted market research and will continue to seek competition for future requirements where possible. This notice is for informational purposes regarding a planned sole-source award.