NASA's HIRDLS instrument contract awarded to University of Colorado for $46.8M, spanning over 13 years
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $46,816,566 ($46.8M)
Contractor: THE Regents of the University of Colorado
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2000-01-15
End Date: 2013-06-30
Contract Duration: 4,915 days
Daily Burn Rate: $9.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 51
Pricing Type: COST NO FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: THE HIGH RESOLUTION DYNAMICS LIMB SOUNCE (HIRDLS) IS AN INFRARED LIMB-SCANNING RADIOMETER DESIGNED TO SOUND THE UPPER TROPOSPHERE, STRATOSPHERE, AND MESOSPHERE TO DETERMINE: TEMPERATURE, THE CONCENTRATIONS OF O3, H2O, CH4, N2O, HNO3, N2O5, CFC11, CFC12, CIONO12 , AND AEROSOLS; AND THE LOCATIONS OF POLAR STRATOSPHERIC CLOUDS AND CLOUD TOPS. HIRDLS WAS SELECTED FOR THE NASA EARTH OBSERVING SYSTEM (EOS) AURA SPACECRAFT WITH THE FOLLOWING GOALS: TO PROVIDE SOUNDING OBSERVATIONS WITH HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL RESOLUTION SUPERIOR TO THAT PREVIOUSLY OBTAINED; TO OBSERVE THE LOWER STRATOSPHERE WITH IMPROVED SENSITIVITY AND ACCURACY; AND TO IMPROVE UNDERSTANDING OF ATMOSPHERIC PROCESSES THROUGH DATA ANALYSIS, DIAGNOSTICS, AND USE OF TWO- AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELS. THIS EFFORT ENCOMPASSES THE TASKS NECESSARY TO VALIDATE, MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE THE SCIENCE DATA RETRIEVAL ALGORITHMS FOR THE HIRDLS PRODUCTS MENTIONED ABOVE. THESE TASKS WILL CONTINUE THE ONGOING REPROCESSING, EVALUATION AND VALIDATION OF THE STANDARD HIRDLS PRODUCTS USING THE CURRENT VERSION 4 AND SUBSEQUENT VERSIONS OF THE ALGORITHM. IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE ALGORITHM TASKS IN THIS STATEMENT OF WORK WILL LEAD TO FURTHER ALGORITHM VERSION UPDATES AS THE WORK PROGRESSES WITH FINAL RELEASE COMING NEAR THE END OF THE BASELINE CONTRACT PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE.
Place of Performance
Location: BOULDER, BOULDER County, COLORADO, 80302
State: Colorado Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $46.8 million to THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO for work described as: THE HIGH RESOLUTION DYNAMICS LIMB SOUNCE (HIRDLS) IS AN INFRARED LIMB-SCANNING RADIOMETER DESIGNED TO SOUND THE UPPER TROPOSPHERE, STRATOSPHERE, AND MESOSPHERE TO DETERMINE: TEMPERATURE, THE CONCENTRATIONS OF O3, H2O, CH4, N2O, HNO3, N2O5, CFC11, CFC12, CIONO12 , AND AEROSOLS; … Key points: 1. The contract supported the development and operation of an advanced infrared radiometer for atmospheric research. 2. The instrument aimed to provide unprecedented resolution for measuring key atmospheric constituents and phenomena. 3. Long contract duration suggests a complex, multi-phase project with significant research and development components. 4. The University of Colorado's selection indicates specialized expertise in atmospheric science instrumentation. 5. The project's success is tied to NASA's broader Earth Observing System (EOS) Aura mission goals. 6. Focus on upper atmospheric layers highlights research into climate change and ozone layer dynamics. 7. The 'Cost No Fee' contract type implies government reimbursement of allowable costs, with no fixed profit margin. 8. The definitive contract award suggests a long-term, comprehensive agreement for services and potentially hardware.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The total award of $46.8 million over 13 years for a sophisticated scientific instrument like HIRDLS appears reasonable, considering the complexity and duration. Benchmarking against similar large-scale, long-term scientific instrument development contracts for space missions would provide a more precise value-for-money assessment. The 'Cost No Fee' (Cost Reimbursement, No Fee) contract type, while common for R&D, shifts some financial risk to the government but allows for flexibility in evolving research needs. Without specific performance metrics or detailed cost breakdowns, a definitive value assessment is challenging, but the sustained funding over a long period suggests perceived value by NASA.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple qualified vendors had the opportunity to bid. This process is designed to foster a competitive environment, potentially leading to better pricing and innovation. The number of bidders is not specified, but the full and open nature suggests a robust competition was sought for this significant scientific instrument development. The selection of The Regents of the University of Colorado implies they offered the best value proposition among the competing entities.
Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally benefits taxpayers by driving down costs through market forces and encouraging a wider pool of talent, leading to potentially more efficient use of public funds.
Public Impact
The primary beneficiaries are the scientific community and researchers studying Earth's atmosphere, climate change, and ozone depletion. The contract delivered a high-resolution infrared radiometer (HIRDLS) for deployment on NASA's Aura spacecraft. The data generated impacts global understanding of atmospheric processes, particularly in the upper troposphere, stratosphere, and mesosphere. Workforce implications include employment for scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff at the University of Colorado and potentially subcontractors. The research contributes to international scientific efforts and informs policy decisions related to environmental protection and climate change mitigation. The instrument's findings are crucial for improving atmospheric models and forecasting.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Long contract duration (over 13 years) can sometimes indicate potential for cost overruns or scope creep if not managed tightly.
- The 'Cost No Fee' contract type, while allowing flexibility, places the financial risk of cost overruns primarily on the government.
- Dependence on a single instrument (HIRDLS) for specific atmospheric data means any technical failures could significantly impact research continuity.
- The complexity of the instrument and its data processing may present challenges in ensuring data quality and accessibility over the long term.
Positive Signals
- Awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a competitive process likely yielded a strong technical and cost proposal.
- The University of Colorado is a reputable research institution with demonstrated expertise in atmospheric science.
- The instrument is part of NASA's Earth Observing System (EOS) Aura mission, indicating alignment with significant scientific objectives and oversight.
- The long duration suggests a well-defined, multi-year plan for development, testing, and potentially data analysis.
- The focus on high-resolution atmospheric sounding addresses critical scientific questions related to climate and atmospheric chemistry.
Sector Analysis
The contract falls within the scientific research and development sector, specifically focusing on Earth observation and atmospheric science instrumentation. This is a highly specialized area often dominated by academic institutions and specialized aerospace contractors. The market involves significant government investment through agencies like NASA, NOAA, and DoD. Comparable spending benchmarks would include other large-scale space-based scientific instruments or sensor development projects, which typically involve multi-year timelines and substantial budgets due to the technological sophistication and rigorous testing required.
Small Business Impact
Information regarding small business participation, such as set-asides or subcontracting plans, is not explicitly provided in the data. Given the specialized nature of developing a high-resolution infrared radiometer for a NASA mission, the prime contract was likely awarded to an entity with extensive research and development capabilities, such as a university. It is possible that smaller businesses were involved as subcontractors for specific components or services, but this cannot be determined from the provided data. Further investigation into subcontracting reports would be necessary to assess the impact on the small business ecosystem.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would primarily reside with NASA, given its role as the contracting agency and the mission's scientific objectives. NASA's procurement and program management offices would be responsible for monitoring contract performance, cost, schedule, and technical milestones. The 'Cost No Fee' structure necessitates close government oversight of expenditures to ensure compliance with allowable cost principles. Inspector General audits may also be conducted periodically to ensure financial integrity and prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. Transparency is generally maintained through NASA's public outreach and scientific publications derived from the mission's data.
Related Government Programs
- NASA Earth Observing System (EOS)
- Aura Mission
- Atmospheric Research Instruments
- Climate Monitoring Satellites
- Infrared Radiometers
- Stratospheric Research
Risk Flags
- Long contract duration may increase risk of cost escalation.
- Cost-reimbursement contract type shifts financial risk to the government.
- Complexity of scientific instrument development carries inherent technical risks.
- Dependence on a single instrument for specific data requires robust operational reliability.
Tags
nasa, earth-science, atmospheric-research, infrared-radiometer, spacecraft-instrument, cost-plus-fixed-fee, definitive-contract, university-research, full-and-open-competition, colorado, research-and-development, long-term-contract
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $46.8 million to THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO. THE HIGH RESOLUTION DYNAMICS LIMB SOUNCE (HIRDLS) IS AN INFRARED LIMB-SCANNING RADIOMETER DESIGNED TO SOUND THE UPPER TROPOSPHERE, STRATOSPHERE, AND MESOSPHERE TO DETERMINE: TEMPERATURE, THE CONCENTRATIONS OF O3, H2O, CH4, N2O, HNO3, N2O5, CFC11, CFC12, CIONO12 , AND AEROSOLS; AND THE LOCATIONS OF POLAR STRATOSPHERIC CLOUDS AND CLOUD TOPS. HIRDLS WAS SELECTED FOR THE NASA EARTH OBSERVING SYSTEM (EOS) AURA SPACECRAFT WITH THE FOLLOWING GOALS: TO PROVIDE SOUNDING OBSERVATIONS WITH HORIZONTAL AN
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO.
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 $46.8 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2000-01-15. End: 2013-06-30.
What was the specific technical expertise of The Regents of the University of Colorado that led to their selection for this contract?
The Regents of the University of Colorado, specifically its research teams in atmospheric science and aerospace engineering, likely possessed specialized expertise in the design, development, calibration, and testing of advanced infrared sensing technologies and instruments for space-based applications. Their selection would have been based on a demonstrated track record of successful research projects, relevant publications, prior experience with NASA or similar agencies, and the ability to meet the stringent technical requirements for the HIRDLS instrument. This often includes a deep understanding of radiative transfer, sensor physics, cryogenics (if applicable), signal processing, and the unique challenges of operating instruments in the harsh environment of space. Their proposal would have detailed their technical approach, management plan, and the qualifications of their key personnel.
How does the $46.8 million cost compare to similar atmospheric research instruments developed for space missions?
The $46.8 million cost for the HIRDLS instrument, spread over approximately 13 years, appears to be within a reasonable range for complex, long-duration space-based scientific instruments. Instruments for NASA's Earth Observing System (EOS) and other major Earth science missions often cost tens to hundreds of millions of dollars due to the extensive research, development, testing, and integration required. For instance, other instruments on the Aura satellite or similar missions like CALIPSO or CloudSat had development costs in a similar order of magnitude. Factors influencing cost include the instrument's size, complexity, technological novelty, required resolution and accuracy, the number of channels or spectral bands, and the rigorous qualification processes needed for spaceflight. A precise comparison would require detailed analysis of similar instruments' specifications and lifecycles.
What are the primary risks associated with a 'Cost No Fee' contract for a long-term R&D project like HIRDLS?
The primary risk associated with a 'Cost No Fee' (Cost Reimbursement, No Fee) contract for a long-term R&D project like HIRDLS is that the government bears the financial risk of cost overruns. While the contractor does not receive a fixed profit, they are reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred. If the project encounters unforeseen technical challenges, requires additional resources, or experiences delays, the total cost to the government can escalate significantly beyond initial estimates. This necessitates robust government oversight to scrutinize costs, ensure efficiency, and prevent unnecessary expenditures. For the contractor, the risk is lower in terms of financial loss, but reputational damage can occur if the project fails or significantly exceeds budget, potentially impacting future contract opportunities.
What is the expected impact of the HIRDLS data on climate modeling and atmospheric science understanding?
The HIRDLS instrument was designed to provide unprecedented high-resolution temperature and trace gas concentration data in the upper troposphere, stratosphere, and mesosphere. This data is crucial for improving the accuracy of climate models by providing better inputs and validation points for atmospheric processes that occur in these critical layers. Understanding the distribution and variability of gases like ozone (O3), water vapor (H2O), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), as well as aerosols and polar stratospheric clouds, is fundamental to comprehending atmospheric chemistry, dynamics, and their influence on Earth's climate system. The improved vertical and horizontal resolution offered by HIRDLS allows scientists to study phenomena like atmospheric waves, transport processes, and chemical reactions with greater detail, leading to more robust predictions of future climate change and stratospheric ozone recovery.
How has NASA's spending on atmospheric research instruments evolved over the period of this contract (2000-2013)?
During the period of this contract (2000-2013), NASA's spending on atmospheric research instruments, particularly for Earth observation missions like the EOS Aura spacecraft, remained substantial. This era saw a continued focus on understanding climate change, atmospheric chemistry, and Earth's systems. NASA's budget allocations for science instruments and missions reflect a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in these areas. While specific year-over-year spending fluctuates based on mission lifecycles (development, launch, operations), the overall trend indicated significant investment in sophisticated remote sensing technologies. The HIRDLS contract itself, representing a large portion of the funding for a single instrument, exemplifies the scale of investment required for such advanced scientific endeavors during that period. Budgetary pressures and shifting scientific priorities can influence future spending, but this contract falls within a period of strong support for Earth science.
What are the implications of the HIRDLS instrument's focus on polar stratospheric clouds and aerosols?
The HIRDLS instrument's capability to detect polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) and aerosols has significant implications for understanding ozone depletion and climate processes in the polar regions. PSCs play a critical role in the chemical reactions that destroy stratospheric ozone, particularly in the Antarctic spring. By providing detailed information on the formation, composition, and spatial extent of these clouds, HIRDLS data helps scientists refine models of ozone chemistry and predict the severity and duration of ozone holes. Furthermore, aerosols in the stratosphere can influence Earth's radiative balance by scattering or absorbing solar radiation, thereby affecting climate. Monitoring stratospheric aerosols, including those from volcanic eruptions or other sources, is crucial for understanding their impact on global temperatures and atmospheric composition. The high-resolution data from HIRDLS allows for a more precise assessment of these phenomena's influence.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services › Engineering Services
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › Space R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: BASIC RESEARCH
Offers Received: 51
Pricing Type: COST NO FEE (S)
Contractor Details
Address: 914 BROADWAY ST, BOULDER, CO, 80309
Business Categories: Category Business, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Not Designated a Small Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $116,489,566
Exercised Options: $116,489,566
Current Obligation: $46,816,566
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Timeline
Start Date: 2000-01-15
Current End Date: 2013-06-30
Potential End Date: 2013-06-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2018-08-23
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