Planetary Plasma Interactions Discipline Node
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) is conducting a Sources Sought to identify qualified sources for the Planetary Plasma Interactions Discipline Node. This notice seeks capability statements and industry feedback to inform the acquisition strategy for ensuring long-term preservation and usability of NASA planetary science data. Responses are due June 12, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Planetary Plasma Interactions (PPI) Discipline Node, part of the Planetary Data System (PDS), is responsible for the secure preservation and usability of NASA planetary science data. Key responsibilities include:
- Planetary Science Mission Support: Ingesting, validating, and peer-reviewing data from missions, research scientists, and observations; guiding missions in data organization.
- Data Archival & Distribution: Implementing PDS Level 3 and 4 requirements, providing authoritative data copies to NSSDCA, ensuring public accessibility, and minimizing downtime.
- Standards & Documentation: Maintaining PDS archiving standards, ensuring interoperability, and managing PDS4 Local Language Dictionaries and APIs.
- Enterprise Modernization: Supporting cloud migration, converting data to PDS4, and evolving mission data pipelines.
- Cybersecurity: Achieving and maintaining full compliance with Federal and NASA cybersecurity laws (e.g., FISMA, FITARA) and directives.
- Online Presence: Transitioning the Discipline Node's web presence and dataset access to NASA-managed infrastructure.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Duration: Anticipated Period of Performance from December 1, 2026, to November 30, 2029.
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage); the Government may consider various small business set-asides based on responses.
- Response Due: June 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM Eastern Standard Time.
- Published: May 28, 2026.
- Place of Performance: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Evaluation
This RFI is for information and planning purposes. Responses will be used to determine the appropriate level of competition, potential small business subcontracting goals, and overall industry capability. NASA encourages input on realistic SB subcontracting goals, barriers to SB participation, and strategies to increase SB involvement (e.g., breaking requirements, subcontracting areas, teaming/mentor-protégé).
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Proposal, and the Government will not pay for information submitted. NASA intends to publicize a listing of respondents to facilitate teaming arrangements, unless firms explicitly request not to be included. The NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. Future solicitations will be posted on Sam.gov.