Two-Axis Gimbal for Kilowatt-Class Hall Thrusters Request for Information (RFI)
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 Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to identify qualified vendors capable of providing two-axis Thruster Gimbal Assembly (TGA) mechanisms for Kilowatt-Class Hall Thrusters. This RFI is for planning purposes to assess commercially available solutions and identify potential sources for future small-satellite propulsion systems. Responses are due July 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
JPL seeks information on two-axis TGAs with specific technical requirements, including:
- Angular Range: +/- 15 degrees minimum per axis.
- Accuracy: +/- 0.1 degrees or better.
- Physical Constraints: Mass ≤ 5 kg, mounting footprint < 24 cm x 24 cm, height ≤ 15 cm.
- Power: < 20 W (max), < 5 W (idle) at 28 V nominal.
- Environmental: Minimum operating temperature -40 C, capable of handling ≤15 W heat flux from thrusters, position locking for launch.
- Compatibility: Specific interface requirements for MaSMi and NASA-H71M thrusters.
- Information Requested: Details on actuator type, control electronics, position sensing, slew rates, response times, environmental/qualification testing, TRL, and flight heritage.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: Potential Small Business Set-Aside (NAICS 336414 – Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing, size standard 1,300 employees).
- RFI Questions Due: June 24, 2026.
- JPL Responses to Questions: July 8, 2026.
- RFI Responses Due: July 17, 2026, by 3:00 PM Pacific Time.
- Published: June 3, 2026.
Evaluation
Responses will be reviewed by JPL for planning purposes, to inform potential future solicitations, and to make decisions regarding a Small Business Set-Aside procurement. This RFI does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to procure.
Additional Notes
Vendors are requested to provide company details, socioeconomic status, teaming arrangements, Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) costs and schedules, and past performance examples. Information provided will be deemed furnished with unlimited rights to JPL. Costs incurred in responding are the vendor's responsibility. There is no guarantee that a Request for Proposal (RFP) will be issued.