USAFA Telescope Backup Camera
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 United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is conducting market research to identify capable and interested parties for supplying a Telescope Backup Camera. This Sources Sought notice aims to gather information on industry capabilities for a scientific/research grade camera with specific technical requirements. Responses are due by June 10, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. MDT.
Scope of Requirement
USAFA requires an Astronomical Camera with the following salient characteristics:
- Scientific/research grade
- Focal plane: 44 mm x 33 mm or larger
- Color: Monochrome (not color)
- Connectivity: Preferred Ethernet (gigabit/sec transfer rate)
- Image depth: 16 bit images
- Resolution: Greater than 80 megapixels
- Sensor: Sony IMX461 sensor chip preferred
- Weight: Less than 30 pounds
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified (open to all business sizes)
- Response Due: June 10, 2026, 2:00 P.M. MDT
- Published: June 3, 2026
Response Requirements
Interested parties should submit a brief description of their company, including:
- Business Size: Annual revenues and employee count.
- Business Status: Socio-economic categories (e.g., 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, VOSB, Small Business).
- Identifiers: UEI, CAGE Code, System for Award Management (SAM) expiration date.
- Technical Capability: Demonstrate ability to meet the specified requirements.
- Reseller Letter: If not the manufacturer, provide an authorized reseller letter. Responses should be emailed to Contract Specialist Ms. Sana Hamad (sana.hamad@us.af.mil) and Contracting Officer Mr. Kenneth Jackson (kenneth.jackson.30@us.af.mil).
Additional Notes
This notice is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a request for quotation or a commitment by the Government to issue a solicitation or award a contract. The Government will not pay for response costs, and funds are not currently available for this effort. Not responding does not preclude participation in any future solicitation. Proprietary information should be clearly identified.