NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Investigation Contract Awarded for $38M, Focusing on R&D
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $38,048,480 ($38.0M)
Contractor: Southwest Research Institute
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2005-03-16
End Date: 2028-09-30
Contract Duration: 8,599 days
Daily Burn Rate: $4.4K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 999
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: LUNAR RECONNAISSANCE OBITER MEASUREMENT INVESTIGATION PHASES A/B AND BRIDGE PHASE
Place of Performance
Location: SAN ANTONIO, BEXAR County, TEXAS, 78228
State: Texas Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $38.0 million to SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE for work described as: LUNAR RECONNAISSANCE OBITER MEASUREMENT INVESTIGATION PHASES A/B AND BRIDGE PHASE Key points: 1. Contract awarded to Southwest Research Institute for $38M. 2. Focuses on Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences. 3. Competition method was Full and Open, suggesting potential for competitive pricing. 4. Contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can incentivize cost control. 5. Project duration is substantial, spanning over 7 years.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $38M over approximately 7 years suggests a moderate annual spend. Benchmarking against similar R&D contracts requires more granular data on scope and deliverables, but the award to a single entity implies specific expertise was sought.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating multiple bidders were likely considered. This method generally promotes competitive pricing and ensures the government receives the best value.
Taxpayer Impact: The $38M investment supports critical space exploration research, potentially leading to technological advancements and scientific discoveries that benefit the public.
Public Impact
Supports NASA's ongoing lunar exploration efforts. Investments in R&D can lead to future technological innovations. Contract duration allows for sustained research and development. Potential for scientific discoveries related to the moon's environment.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts can sometimes lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully.
- Long contract duration may present risks if project scope or objectives change significantly.
Positive Signals
- Full and open competition is a positive signal for value.
- Award to a single entity suggests specialized capabilities.
- Focus on R&D aligns with agency mission objectives.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under the Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences sector. Spending in this area is crucial for technological advancement and scientific discovery, with benchmarks varying widely based on project scope and complexity.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates this contract was not awarded to small businesses, as 'sb' is false. Further analysis would be needed to determine if subcontracting opportunities exist for small businesses within this larger award.
Oversight & Accountability
NASA's robust oversight mechanisms are expected to monitor this contract's progress, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timelines. Regular reporting and performance reviews are standard for such long-term R&D projects.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contracting
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Programs
Risk Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure
- Long contract duration
- Sole awardee (potential lack of ongoing competitive pressure)
- No small business set-aside indicated
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, national-aeronautics-and-space-administr, tx, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $38.0 million to SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE. LUNAR RECONNAISSANCE OBITER MEASUREMENT INVESTIGATION PHASES A/B AND BRIDGE PHASE
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE.
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 $38.0 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2005-03-16. End: 2028-09-30.
What specific scientific or technological advancements are expected from this LRO investigation?
The LRO investigation aims to gather crucial data about the lunar environment, including surface composition, geological features, and potential resources. Expected advancements could range from improved understanding of lunar geology and history to identifying optimal landing sites and resource utilization strategies for future missions, ultimately supporting long-term human presence on the Moon.
What are the primary risks associated with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract for a long-term R&D project?
The primary risks with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract for long-term R&D include potential cost overruns if the contractor's actual costs exceed estimates, leading to higher final prices. Additionally, the fixed fee might not adequately incentivize efficiency if not structured with performance metrics. Scope creep is also a risk, as evolving research needs could lead to contract modifications and increased costs.
How does this contract contribute to NASA's broader strategic goals for lunar exploration?
This contract directly supports NASA's Artemis program and broader lunar exploration objectives by providing essential scientific data and technological insights. The LRO mission's findings are critical for understanding lunar resources, identifying safe landing zones, and paving the way for sustainable human presence. It represents a foundational investment in the knowledge base required for future lunar activities.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › Space R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Solicitation ID: AO NNH04ZSS003O
Offers Received: 999
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 6220 CULEBRA RD, SAN ANTONIO, TX, 78238
Business Categories: Category Business, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $41,719,831
Exercised Options: $41,719,831
Current Obligation: $38,048,480
Actual Outlays: $11,392,740
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Timeline
Start Date: 2005-03-16
Current End Date: 2028-09-30
Potential End Date: 2028-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-03-24
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