NASA Awards $1.8M Contract for Astrophysics Support to Barrios Technology, LLC
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $181,567 ($181.6K)
Contractor: Barrios Technology, LLC
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2026-04-16
End Date: 2027-04-15
Contract Duration: 364 days
Daily Burn Rate: $499/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: SCIENCE MISSION DIRECTORATE ASTROPHYSICS NEEDS ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROJECT COORDINATION SUPPORT.
Place of Performance
Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA County, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 20546
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $181,567.47 to BARRIOS TECHNOLOGY, LLC for work described as: SCIENCE MISSION DIRECTORATE ASTROPHYSICS NEEDS ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROJECT COORDINATION SUPPORT. Key points: 1. Contract value of $1.8M for administrative and project coordination support. 2. Barrios Technology, LLC, a private company, is the awardee. 3. The contract falls under Research and Development in Physical Sciences. 4. Full and open competition was conducted after exclusion of sources.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract value of $1.8M for a 364-day period appears reasonable for specialized administrative and project coordination support in a complex scientific field like astrophysics. Benchmarking against similar support contracts within NASA or other federal R&D agencies would provide a clearer picture of its cost-effectiveness.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded through full and open competition after exclusion of sources, indicating a competitive bidding process. This method aims to ensure fair pricing and access to the widest possible pool of qualified contractors, though the exclusion of specific sources warrants further investigation.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being used for essential support services that enable NASA's astrophysics missions. The competitive nature of the award suggests an effort to achieve value for money.
Public Impact
Supports critical astrophysics research and development efforts at NASA. Ensures smooth administrative and project coordination for scientific endeavors. Potential for advancements in space science and understanding of the universe. Contract award contributes to the private sector's role in government research.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 100 / 10
Warning Flags
- Exclusion of sources in a full and open competition needs clarification.
- Potential for scope creep in administrative and coordination tasks.
- Dependence on a single contractor for critical support functions.
Positive Signals
- Award to a qualified private sector entity.
- Supports vital scientific research.
- Competitive bidding process utilized.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical sciences. Spending in this area is crucial for scientific advancement and technological innovation. Benchmarks for administrative and project coordination support within R&D can vary significantly based on project complexity and duration.
Small Business Impact
The awardee, Barrios Technology, LLC, is not identified as a small business. This contract does not appear to have specific set-asides or provisions for small business participation, which could be an area for future consideration in similar procurements.
Oversight & Accountability
NASA's internal oversight mechanisms will be crucial in monitoring contract performance, ensuring adherence to scope, and managing costs. Regular performance reviews and clear communication channels will be essential for accountability.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contracting
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Programs
Risk Flags
- Potential for limited competition due to source exclusion.
- Contract duration is close to one year, requiring careful management.
- Awardee is not a small business, limiting small business participation.
- Reliance on external support for critical project functions.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, national-aeronautics-and-space-administr, dc, delivery-order, 100k-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $181,567.47 to BARRIOS TECHNOLOGY, LLC. SCIENCE MISSION DIRECTORATE ASTROPHYSICS NEEDS ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROJECT COORDINATION SUPPORT.
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is BARRIOS TECHNOLOGY, LLC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $181,567.47.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2026-04-16. End: 2027-04-15.
What specific criteria led to the exclusion of certain sources in this 'full and open competition after exclusion of sources' award, and how did this impact the final price and contractor selection?
The exclusion of sources typically occurs when specific technical capabilities, security clearances, or unique past performance are required that only a limited number of entities possess. While aiming for competition, this exclusion can narrow the field, potentially affecting price discovery. A thorough justification for the exclusion is necessary to ensure it was both necessary and did not unduly restrict competition, thereby impacting the final price achieved.
How will NASA ensure that the administrative and project coordination support provided by Barrios Technology, LLC directly contributes to the successful execution and timely completion of astrophysics
NASA will likely establish clear performance work statements (PWS) with measurable objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for Barrios Technology. These metrics could include on-time delivery of reports, successful coordination of meetings, efficient resource allocation, and proactive risk identification. Regular progress reviews and feedback mechanisms will be employed to monitor performance against these KPIs and ensure the support directly enhances mission effectiveness.
Given the specialized nature of astrophysics, what are the potential risks associated with relying on external administrative and project coordination support, and what mitigation strategies are in pl
Risks include potential gaps in understanding highly technical project nuances, communication breakdowns between the contractor and NASA scientists, and data security concerns. Mitigation strategies may involve rigorous contractor vetting, clear communication protocols, dedicated NASA liaisons, robust security measures, and phased integration of support to ensure alignment with mission objectives and scientific priorities.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: SUPPORT SVCS (PROF, ADMIN, MGMT) › PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 13100 SPACE CENTER BLVD, HOUSTON, TX, 77059
Business Categories: Category Business, Partnership or Limited Liability Partnership, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business, Woman Owned Business, Women Owned Small Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $181,567
Exercised Options: $181,567
Current Obligation: $181,567
Contract Characteristics
Multi-Year Contract: Yes
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: 80MSFC21D0009
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2026-04-16
Current End Date: 2027-04-15
Potential End Date: 2027-04-15 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-04-10
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