Sources Sought Photodissociation Laser
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 Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting a Sources Sought for a Low Temperature AlH+ Photodissociation Laser. This market research aims to identify potential and eligible business firms, of all sizes, that can provide this product, and to determine if any Small Business Set-aside opportunities exist. Responses are due by June 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
NIST requires one AlH+ Photodissociation Laser to support the development of optical frequency standards and precision measurements with trapped ions. Key specifications include:
- Type: Continuous Wave Laser
- Wavelength: 360.4 nm +/- 0.1 nm
- Power: ≥ 20 mW @ 360.4 nm
- Stability: < 2% over 8 hours in a temperature-controlled environment
- Beam: Free space, TEM00 spatial mode, M2 ≤ 1.1, divergence ≤ 1.0 mrad
- Control: USB and RS-232 ports
- Design: Compact, plug-and-play with minimal user alignment.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS: 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Response Due: June 15, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
- Published: June 5, 2026, 5:40 PM ET
- Place of Performance: Boulder, CO
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to four (4) pages or less, via email to Lisa Stevens (lisa.stevens@nist.gov). Submissions must include:
- Name of the company providing and manufacturing the product.
- Country of origin or manufacture.
- Spec/data sheets and examples demonstrating compliance with specifications.
- Typical lead time for delivery after order receipt.
- Any other relevant information for developing minimum specifications.
Evaluation
This is a market research tool. Responses will be used to identify qualified firms, including small businesses, and to determine the country of manufacture. This information will inform NIST's method of acquisition and potential set-aside opportunities. NIST is seeking responses from ALL responsible sources, including large and small businesses.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Proposals or Quotes; no quotes will be accepted. The Government will not pay for information received. Required services include vendor technician on-site installation, training for laboratory users (alignment, optimization, operation), and details on warranty and maintenance. Delivery in 6 weeks ARO is preferred.