NASA's Glenn Research Center awarded $28.6M for R&D in space environment, materials, and propulsion systems
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $28,603,587 ($28.6M)
Contractor: Universities Space Research Association
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2013-10-01
End Date: 2020-03-31
Contract Duration: 2,373 days
Daily Burn Rate: $12.1K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: IGF::OT::IGF THIS CONTRACT SHALL ENABLE THE GLENN RESEARCH CENTER (GRC) TO SECURE, SUSTAIN, AND GROW SPECIALIZED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CAPABILITIES ESSENTIAL TO ITS ROLE IN SUPPORTING NASA PROGRAMS AND GRC'S STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN. THE ARTS CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE SUPPORT IN CONDUCTING APPLIED RESEARCH IN AREAS OF GRC S CORE COMPETENCIES AS WELL AS ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES. THESE INCLUDE INCORPORATING THE NECESSARY ADVANCES IN RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGIES TO PROVIDE A BROADER UNDERSTANDING OF THE EFFECTS OF THE ENVIRONMENT OF SPACE; MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES FOR AEROSPACE APPLICATIONS; ENGINE SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES FOR AEROSPACE VEHICLES; IN-SPACE POWER AND PROPULSION SYSTEMS; INSTRUMENTATION, SENSORS, AND CONTROLS FOR AERONAUTICS AND SPACE SYSTEMS; AND TECHNOLOGIES FOR SAFE AND EFFICIENT AIRCRAFT OPERATION IN ATMOSPHERIC ICING CONDITIONS. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE RESEARCH AVENUES THAT, BY FILLING GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE, WILL CREATE THE FOUNDATION UPON WHICH BROADLY APPLICABLE NEW TECHNOLOGIES CAN BE DEVELOPED. THOSE TECHNOLOGIES WILL BE APPLIED TO SYSTEMS BEING DEVELOPED BY VARIOUS NASA MISSION DIRECTORATES.
Place of Performance
Location: CLEVELAND, CUYAHOGA County, OHIO, 44135
State: Ohio Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $28.6 million to UNIVERSITIES SPACE RESEARCH ASSOCIATION for work described as: IGF::OT::IGF THIS CONTRACT SHALL ENABLE THE GLENN RESEARCH CENTER (GRC) TO SECURE, SUSTAIN, AND GROW SPECIALIZED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CAPABILITIES ESSENTIAL TO ITS ROLE IN SUPPORTING NASA PROGRAMS AND GRC'S STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN. THE ARTS CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE SUPPORT IN … Key points: 1. Contract supports critical R&D for NASA's space exploration and aeronautics goals. 2. Focus areas include space environment effects, advanced materials, and propulsion technologies. 3. The contractor, Universities Space Research Association, has a history of supporting NASA. 4. Contract duration spans over six years, indicating a long-term need for these capabilities. 5. Spending is concentrated in Ohio, potentially benefiting the regional aerospace ecosystem. 6. The contract type (Cost Plus Fixed Fee) allows for flexibility but requires careful cost oversight.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract's value of $28.6 million over six years for specialized R&D appears reasonable given the scope of work. Benchmarking against similar large-scale, multi-disciplinary research contracts within NASA or other federal agencies would provide a more precise value-for-money assessment. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure, while common for R&D, necessitates diligent oversight to ensure costs remain aligned with the fixed fee and project objectives. Without specific comparable contract data, it's difficult to definitively state if the pricing is below market, but the duration and specialized nature suggest a fair investment for sustained capability.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
This contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple bidders had the opportunity to submit proposals. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the full and open nature suggests a competitive process that should theoretically drive better pricing and innovation. This approach is generally favored for ensuring the government receives the best value by considering a wide range of potential contractors.
Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition process is beneficial for taxpayers as it maximizes the chances of securing competitive pricing and high-quality services by allowing all qualified vendors to participate.
Public Impact
Benefits NASA's Glenn Research Center by securing specialized R&D capabilities. Supports advancements in understanding space environments, aerospace materials, and propulsion systems. Enables the development of technologies crucial for future NASA missions and programs. Potential workforce implications for researchers and technical staff in the Ohio region. Contributes to the broader scientific and technological understanding of aerospace challenges.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts can incentivize contractors to incur costs without direct profit incentive on those costs, potentially leading to less cost-consciousness if not managed tightly.
- The long duration of the contract (over 6 years) requires ongoing monitoring to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness of the R&D efforts.
- Specialized R&D can be inherently risky, with outcomes not always guaranteed, requiring robust project management and milestone tracking.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a robust selection process.
- The contractor, Universities Space Research Association, has a demonstrated history of supporting NASA's research objectives.
- The contract directly supports NASA's strategic goals and core competencies, indicating alignment with agency priorities.
- Focus on critical areas like space environment and advanced propulsion is vital for future space exploration.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences sector, specifically NAICS code 541712. This sector is characterized by innovation and scientific discovery, often involving long-term projects with uncertain outcomes. Spending in this area is crucial for maintaining a nation's technological edge and advancing scientific understanding. Comparable spending benchmarks would typically involve analyzing other large federal R&D contracts awarded to research institutions and universities for similar scientific disciplines.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). As a large contract supporting specialized R&D, it is unlikely to have significant direct subcontracting opportunities for small businesses unless specified within the contract's statement of work. The primary focus is on securing advanced research capabilities, which are typically held by larger research institutions or consortia.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would primarily fall under NASA's Glenn Research Center contracting officers and program managers. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure necessitates rigorous financial oversight to ensure costs are allowable, allocable, and reasonable. Transparency is generally maintained through contract reporting requirements and potential reviews by NASA's Inspector General, particularly concerning financial expenditures and adherence to the contract's objectives.
Related Government Programs
- NASA Research and Development Programs
- Space Technology Mission Directorate Contracts
- Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate Contracts
- Advanced Materials Research
- Propulsion Systems Development
Risk Flags
- Cost Overrun Risk (CPFF)
- Scope Creep Risk (R&D)
- Performance Measurement Challenges (R&D)
Tags
research-and-development, nasa, glenn-research-center, universities-space-research-association, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, space-environment, materials-science, propulsion-systems, ohio, long-term-contract
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $28.6 million to UNIVERSITIES SPACE RESEARCH ASSOCIATION. IGF::OT::IGF THIS CONTRACT SHALL ENABLE THE GLENN RESEARCH CENTER (GRC) TO SECURE, SUSTAIN, AND GROW SPECIALIZED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CAPABILITIES ESSENTIAL TO ITS ROLE IN SUPPORTING NASA PROGRAMS AND GRC'S STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN. THE ARTS CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE SUPPORT IN CONDUCTING APPLIED RESEARCH IN AREAS OF GRC S CORE COMPETENCIES AS WELL AS ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES. THESE INCLUDE INCORPORATING THE NECESSARY ADVANCES IN RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGIES TO PROVIDE A BROADER UNDERSTANDING OF THE
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is UNIVERSITIES SPACE RESEARCH ASSOCIATION.
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 $28.6 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2013-10-01. End: 2020-03-31.
What is the track record of Universities Space Research Association (USRA) with NASA contracts?
Universities Space Research Association (USRA) has a long-standing and extensive track record of supporting NASA and other federal agencies in various research and development capacities. USRA is a non-profit consortium of universities that manages and operates research institutes and facilities on behalf of the government. Their involvement with NASA spans decades, encompassing a wide range of scientific disciplines and mission support. They have managed significant research centers, led complex scientific investigations, and provided critical expertise for space exploration, Earth science, and aeronautics. Their history suggests a deep understanding of NASA's requirements, research priorities, and contracting processes, making them a reliable partner for specialized R&D endeavors like the one awarded by Glenn Research Center.
How does the $28.6 million contract value compare to similar NASA R&D investments?
The $28.6 million contract value for a six-year period of performance for specialized R&D at NASA's Glenn Research Center is within a typical range for such endeavors. NASA frequently awards multi-year contracts in the tens of millions of dollars for research in areas like advanced propulsion, materials science, and space environment studies. For instance, similar contracts for developing new space technologies or conducting fundamental research often fall within this financial bracket. While precise comparisons require access to proprietary contract data, the scale of this award aligns with the complexity and long-term nature of the research objectives, which are critical for advancing NASA's strategic goals in space exploration and aeronautics.
What are the primary risks associated with this Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract?
The primary risks associated with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract, such as this one, revolve around cost control and contractor efficiency. In a CPFF arrangement, the contractor is reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. The risk for the government is that the contractor may have less incentive to control costs compared to fixed-price contracts, as their profit is fixed regardless of the final cost. This necessitates robust government oversight to scrutinize incurred costs, ensure they are reasonable and allocable to the contract, and prevent cost overruns. Additionally, defining the scope of work for R&D can be challenging, leading to potential disputes over what constitutes allowable costs or deviations from the original objectives.
How effective is full and open competition in ensuring value for taxpayer money in specialized R&D contracts?
Full and open competition is generally considered the most effective method for ensuring value for taxpayer money, even in specialized R&D contracts. By allowing all responsible sources to submit bids, the government maximizes the pool of potential contractors, fostering a competitive environment that drives down prices and encourages innovation. For specialized R&D, this means that a wider range of institutions, including universities, research consortia, and private firms, can compete, potentially bringing unique expertise and cost-effective solutions. While R&D outcomes are inherently uncertain, a competitive process helps ensure that the government selects the most capable and cost-efficient approach available in the market, thereby maximizing the return on investment for taxpayer funds.
What are the potential long-term implications of this contract for NASA's research capabilities?
This contract has significant potential long-term implications for NASA's research capabilities by securing and sustaining specialized expertise in critical areas. By investing in applied research related to the space environment, advanced materials, and propulsion systems, NASA ensures it maintains a cutting-edge understanding and technological base necessary for future missions. This sustained capability allows NASA to tackle complex challenges in space exploration, such as developing more efficient spacecraft, understanding the long-term effects of space on humans and equipment, and designing next-generation propulsion systems. The continuity provided by a multi-year contract helps foster deep technical knowledge within the contractor organization, which can then be leveraged for subsequent projects and technological advancements, ultimately strengthening NASA's overall R&D portfolio.
How does this contract align with NASA's strategic priorities and mission objectives?
This contract aligns directly with NASA's core strategic priorities and mission objectives, particularly those related to advancing space exploration, aeronautics, and scientific discovery. The focus on understanding the effects of the space environment, developing advanced materials for aerospace applications, and improving in-space power and propulsion systems are all fundamental to NASA's long-term goals. These research areas are critical for enabling future human missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, as well as for enhancing the safety and efficiency of air travel. By supporting the Glenn Research Center's role in these domains, the contract ensures that NASA continues to build the foundational knowledge and technological capabilities required to achieve its ambitious exploration and scientific endeavors.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › OTHER RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 7178 COLUMBIA GATEWAY DR, COLUMBIA, MD, 21046
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Tax Exempt, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $29,181,644
Exercised Options: $29,181,644
Current Obligation: $28,603,587
Actual Outlays: $273,551
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 55
Total Subaward Amount: $168,447,894
Contract Characteristics
Multi-Year Contract: Yes
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: NNC13BA10B
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2013-10-01
Current End Date: 2020-03-31
Potential End Date: 2020-03-31 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2021-05-21
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