NASA's $50M R&D contract for solar system research awarded to California Institute of Technology
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $50,082,125 ($50.1M)
Contractor: California Institute of Technology
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2007-11-13
End Date: 2012-09-30
Contract Duration: 1,783 days
Daily Burn Rate: $28.1K/day
Competition Type: NOT COMPETED
Number of Offers Received: 51
Pricing Type: COST PLUS AWARD FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: DAWN - A JOURNEY TO THE BEGINNING OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM, PHASE E (MSFC)
Place of Performance
Location: PASADENA, LOS ANGELES County, CALIFORNIA, 91125
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $50.1 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY for work described as: DAWN - A JOURNEY TO THE BEGINNING OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM, PHASE E (MSFC) Key points: 1. Contract awarded for research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences. 2. Significant duration of over 4 years for project completion. 3. Sole-source award suggests unique capabilities or limited market availability. 4. High dollar value indicates a complex and critical research undertaking. 5. Focus on solar system origins points to fundamental scientific inquiry. 6. California Institute of Technology has a strong track record in aerospace research.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
Benchmarking the value of this specific R&D contract is challenging due to its specialized nature and sole-source award. Without comparable contracts for similar deep-space research initiatives, assessing whether the $50 million represents excellent value is difficult. The cost-plus award fee structure allows for flexibility but also necessitates careful oversight to ensure costs remain reasonable relative to the research objectives achieved. The duration of the contract (over 4 years) suggests a substantial scope of work.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: sole-source
This contract was awarded on a sole-source basis, meaning it was not competed among multiple vendors. This typically occurs when a specific contractor possesses unique qualifications, capabilities, or intellectual property essential for the project. The lack of competition means that price discovery through a bidding process was absent, and the government relied on negotiation to establish terms.
Taxpayer Impact: Sole-source awards can potentially lead to higher costs for taxpayers as competitive pressures are removed. However, if the contractor's unique expertise is critical for achieving the research goals, it may be the most effective path forward.
Public Impact
Benefits scientific understanding of the solar system's origins. Advances knowledge in physical, engineering, and life sciences related to space. Supports advanced research infrastructure and scientific personnel at Caltech. Potential for discoveries that could inform future space exploration missions. Impacts the scientific community through published research and data sharing.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Sole-source award limits transparency in pricing and potential for cost savings.
- Cost-plus award fee structure requires robust government oversight to manage expenses.
- Long contract duration increases the risk of scope creep or changing research priorities.
Positive Signals
- Award to a reputable institution (Caltech) with a strong history in relevant research.
- Focus on fundamental scientific research with potential for significant long-term impact.
- Contract supports advanced scientific inquiry and technological development.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development (R&D) sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences related to space exploration. The market for highly specialized space science R&D is often concentrated among a few leading research institutions and aerospace companies. NASA's R&D spending is a significant portion of its budget, aimed at pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and technological capability. Comparable spending benchmarks are difficult to establish due to the unique nature of deep-space research.
Small Business Impact
This contract does not appear to have a small business set-aside component, nor is there information suggesting significant subcontracting opportunities for small businesses. As a sole-source award to a large research institution, the primary focus is on the direct execution of research by the prime contractor. The impact on the small business ecosystem is likely minimal unless Caltech engages them for specific support services not detailed in the award information.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would primarily fall under NASA's contracting officer and technical representatives. Given the cost-plus award fee structure, rigorous monitoring of expenditures, progress, and adherence to research objectives is crucial. Transparency is facilitated through regular reporting requirements from the contractor. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply to any allegations of fraud, waste, or abuse.
Related Government Programs
- NASA Science Mission Directorate Programs
- Planetary Science Research
- Astrophysics Research
- Space Technology Research Grants
- National Science Foundation Research Grants
Risk Flags
- Sole-source award may limit competitive pricing.
- Cost-plus award fee requires diligent government oversight.
- Long contract duration increases risk of scope changes.
Tags
nasa, research-and-development, space-science, california, sole-source, cost-plus-award-fee, large-contract, science-and-technology, national-aeronautics-and-space-administration, delivery-order
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $50.1 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. DAWN - A JOURNEY TO THE BEGINNING OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM, PHASE E (MSFC)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY.
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 $50.1 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2007-11-13. End: 2012-09-30.
What is the specific scientific objective of the DAWN - A JOURNEY TO THE BEGINNING OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM, PHASE E project?
Phase E of the DAWN mission, as indicated by the contract title, likely represents the operational phase or extended mission phase of a project focused on studying the early solar system. While the provided data doesn't detail the specific scientific objectives of Phase E, the DAWN mission itself was designed to study the protoplanet Vesta and the dwarf planet Ceres in the main asteroid belt. These bodies are considered remnants from the early formation period of the solar system, offering insights into the conditions and processes that governed planetary formation. Phase E would typically involve continued data collection, analysis, and dissemination of findings related to these celestial bodies and their implications for solar system evolution.
How does the cost-plus award fee (CPFF) structure influence contractor performance and cost control for this contract?
The Cost-Plus Award Fee (CPFF) structure incentivizes the contractor, California Institute of Technology, to perform effectively while managing costs. Under CPFF, the contractor is reimbursed for allowable costs incurred. Additionally, a base fee is paid, and an award fee is earned based on the government's subjective evaluation of the contractor's performance against pre-defined criteria. This structure encourages the contractor to go beyond minimum requirements to achieve superior performance, as higher performance can lead to a larger award fee. However, it also places a significant burden on the government to establish clear, objective performance metrics and conduct fair, consistent evaluations to ensure the award fee is justified and that costs remain controlled.
What are the potential risks associated with a sole-source award for a long-duration R&D contract?
Sole-source awards for long-duration R&D contracts carry several potential risks. Firstly, the absence of competition can lead to higher costs for taxpayers, as there is no market pressure to drive down prices. Secondly, it can reduce the incentive for innovation if the contractor perceives less risk of being outperformed or replaced. Thirdly, there's a risk of vendor lock-in, where the government becomes overly reliant on a single provider, potentially limiting future options or flexibility. For long-duration contracts, there's also the risk that the contractor's capabilities might not keep pace with evolving technologies or that the initial assessment of their unique qualifications may become outdated over time, yet the sole-source status persists.
What is the historical spending pattern for NASA's R&D contracts in physical and space sciences?
NASA's R&D spending in physical and space sciences has historically been substantial, reflecting its core mission. The agency consistently allocates significant portions of its budget to scientific research, including areas like astrophysics, planetary science, heliophysics, and Earth science. Spending patterns can fluctuate based on major mission starts and completions, technological advancements, and administration priorities. While specific dollar amounts vary year to year, there's a sustained commitment to fundamental research and exploration. Contracts like the one awarded to Caltech are typical for supporting these long-term scientific endeavors, often involving complex research and development over multiple years and significant funding.
How does the geographic location of the contractor (California) impact the contract's execution and oversight?
The geographic location of the contractor, California Institute of Technology in California, has implications for contract execution and oversight. California is a hub for aerospace and technology industries, providing access to a skilled workforce and specialized resources that likely benefit this R&D contract. However, the distance from NASA's primary centers (e.g., Johnson Space Center in Texas, Kennedy Space Center in Florida) may necessitate more structured communication protocols and potentially require more travel for government oversight personnel. Remote oversight tools and regular virtual meetings become crucial. Despite the distance, Caltech's established reputation and infrastructure suggest they are well-equipped to manage the project effectively from their California base.
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: NOT COMPETED
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Offers Received: 51
Pricing Type: COST PLUS AWARD FEE (R)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 4800 OAK GROVE DR, PASADENA, CA, 91109
Business Categories: Category Business, Government, U.S. National Government, Not Designated a Small Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $53,348,671
Exercised Options: $53,348,671
Current Obligation: $50,082,125
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: NAS703001
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2007-11-13
Current End Date: 2012-09-30
Potential End Date: 2012-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2021-02-17
More Contracts from California Institute of Technology
- Europa Clipper Project the Contract IS the Sponsoring Agreement Between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Nasa and the California Institute of Technology-Contractor, a Private Nonprofit Educational Institution, Which Establishes the Relationship for the Operation of the Federally Funded Research and Development Center-Ffrdc Known AS the JET Propulsion Laboratory. the Contractor, JPL, IS Required to Perform Work That IS Designated in Task Orders Issued by the Nasa Management Office-Nmo Contracting Officers. Nasa-Sponsored Work: Jpls Primary Mission IS to Support the Nasa Science Mission Directorate-Smd in Carrying OUT the Specific Objectives Identified in the SMD Science Plan. the Four Broad Scientific Areas ARE: Earth Science, Planetary Science, Heliophysics, and Astrophysics. in Performance of This Contract, JPL Shall: 1. Supply a Broad Base of Scientific and Technical Capabilities Relevant to Nasa Program and Project Responsibilities and Assignments. 2. Foster ITS Unique Relationship With a Top-Tier University to Facilitate the Involvement of Scientists, Engineers, and Students From the University and Research Communities in Nasa Mission and in Supporting Other Government Agencies. 3. Support Nasa in Enabling Program and Institutional Capabilities. 4. Develop Spacecraft and Instruments That ARE Sent to Various Destinations With OUR Solar System, Including Earth Orbit, Planets, Planetary Satellites, Asteroids, and Comets. These Missions MAY BE Orbiters, Landers, or Rovers, and Typically Include Cutting-Edge Technologies Required to Meet Scientific Requirements. 5. Perform Project Tasks Involving: I-Autonomous Deep-Space, Inner-Space and Earth-Orbiting Spacecraft or Major Subsystems, Ii-Experiments, Instruments, or Other Devices Which MAY BE Carried AS Payload on Spacecrafts in Missions Managed by Others, And-Or Iii-Ground-Based Systems. 6. Beyond ITS Primary Mission, JPL MAY Perform Work for Other Nasa Mission Directorates or Offices. 7. JPL IS Also Responsible for the Operation, Research, Technology Insertion, and Management of Nasas Deep Space Network to Provide Telecommunication and Operation Services, Including Data Acquisition and Data Delivery Required to Meet Established Agency Objectives. 8. JPL IS Also Required to Maintain and Conduct an Education Program in Close Coordination With the Nasa Headquarters Education Office, the Academic Community AT Large, and in Support to Nasa Strategic Objectives to Improve Student Retention in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics-Stem Disciplines. Work for Non-Nasa Sponsors: JPL MAY Perform Work for Non-Nasa Sponsors. This Work Will BE Designated in Task Orders Issued by NMO Contracting Officers Based on Task Plans Initiated by the Contractor — $2.9B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Mars Science Laboratory — $1.7B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Mars Sample Return (MSR) Program - Phase a 40-108270 — $1.6B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Deep Space Network (DSN) the Contract IS the Sponsoring Agreement Between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (nasa) and the California Institute of Technology (contractor), a Private Nonprofit Educational Institution, Which Establishes the Relationship for the Operation of the Federally Funded Research and Development Center (ffrdc) Known AS the JET Propulsion Laboratory. the Contractor, JPL, IS Required to Perform Work That IS Designated in Task Orders Issued by the Nasa Management Office (NMO) Contracting Officers. Nasa - Sponsored Work: Jpl's Primary Mission IS to Support the Nasa Science Mission Directorate (SMD) in Carrying OUT the Specific Objectives Identified in the SMD Science Plan. the Four Broad Scientific Areas ARE: Earth Science, Planetary Science, Heliophysics, and Astrophysics. in Performance of This Contract, JPL Shall: 1) Supply a Broad Base of Scientific and Technical Capabilities Relevant to Nasa Program and Project Responsibilities and Assignments. 2) Foster ITS Unique Relationship With a Top-Tier University to Facilitate the Involvement of Scientists, Engineers, and Students From the University and Research Communities in Nasa Mission and in Supporting Other Government Agencies. 3) Support Nasa in Enabling Program and Institutional Capabilities. 4) Develop Spacecraft and Instruments That ARE Sent to Various Destinations With OUR Solar System, Including Earth Orbit, Planets, Planetary Satellites, Asteroids, and Comets. These Missions MAY BE Orbiters, Landers, or Rovers, and Typically Include Cutting-Edge Technologies Required to Meet Scientific Requirements. 5) Perform Project Tasks Involving: (I) Autonomous Deep-Space, Inner-Space and Earth-Orbiting Spacecraft or Major Subsystems, (II) Experiments, Instruments, or Other Devices Which MAY BE Carried AS Payload on Spacecrafts in Missions Managed by Others, And/Or (III) Ground-Based Systems. 6) Beyond ITS Primary Mission, JPL MAY Perform Work for Other Nasa Mission Directorates or Offices. 7) JPL IS Also Responsible for the Operation, Research, Technology Insertion, and Management of Nasa S Deep Space Network to Provide Telecommunication and Operation Services, Including Data Acquisition and Data Delivery Required to Meet Established Agency Objectives. 8) JPL IS Also Required to Maintain and Conduct an Education Program in Close Coordination With the Nasa Headquarters Education Office, the Academic Community AT Large, and in Support to Nasa Strategic Objectives to Improve Student Retention in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (stem) Disciplines. Work for Non-Nasa Sponsors: JPL MAY Perform Work for Non-Nasa Sponsors. This Work Will BE Designated in Task Orders Issued by NMO Contracting Officers Based on Task Plans Initiated by the Contractor — $1.4B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- 2020 Mars Science Rover Project - Phase a the Contract IS the Sponsoring Agreement Between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (nasa) and the California Institute of Technology (contractor), a Private Nonprofit Educational Institution, Which Establishes the Relationship for the Operation of the Federally Funded Research and Development Center (ffrdc) Known AS the JET Propulsion Laboratory. the Contractor, JPL, IS Required to Perform Work That IS Designated in Task Orders Issued by the Nasa Management Office (NMO) Contracting Officers. Nasa - Sponsored Work: Jpl's Primary Mission IS to Support the Nasa Science Mission Directorate (SMD) in Carrying OUT the Specific Objectives Identified in the SMD Science Plan. the Four Broad Scientific Areas ARE: Earth Science, Planetary Science, Heliophysics, and Astrophysics. in Performance of This Contract, JPL Shall: 1) Supply a Broad Base of Scientific and Technical Capabilities Relevant to Nasa Program and Project Responsibilities and Assignments. 2) Foster ITS Unique Relationship With a Top-Tier University to Facilitate the Involvement of Scientists, Engineers, and Students From the University and Research Communities in Nasa Mission and in Supporting Other Government Agencies. 3) Support Nasa in Enabling Program and Institutional Capabilities. 4) Develop Spacecraft and Instruments That ARE Sent to Various Destinations With OUR Solar System, Including Earth Orbit, Planets, Planetary Satellites, Asteroids, and Comets. These Missions MAY BE Orbiters, Landers, or Rovers, and Typically Include Cutting-Edge Technologies Required to Meet Scientific Requirements. 5) Perform Project Tasks Involving: (I) Autonomous Deep-Space, Inner-Space and Earth-Orbiting Spacecraft or Major Subsystems, (II) Experiments, Instruments, or Other Devices Which MAY BE Carried AS Payload on Spacecrafts in Missions Managed by Others, And/Or (III) Ground-Based Systems. 6) Beyond ITS Primary Mission, JPL MAY Perform Work for Other Nasa Mission Directorates or Offices. 7) JPL IS Also Responsible for the Operation, Research, Technology Insertion, and Management of Nasa S Deep Space Network to Provide Telecommunication and Operation Services, Including Data Acquisition and Data Delivery Required to Meet Established Agency Objectives. 8) JPL IS Also Required to Maintain and Conduct an Education Program in Close Coordination With the Nasa Headquarters Education Office, the Academic Community AT Large, and in Support to Nasa Strategic Objectives to Improve Student Retention in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (stem) Disciplines. Work for Non-Nasa Sponsors: JPL MAY Perform Work for Non-Nasa Sponsors. This Work Will BE Designated in Task Orders Issued by NMO Contracting Officers Based on Task Plans Initiated by the Contractor — $1.4B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
View all California Institute of Technology federal contracts →
Other National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contracts
- International Space Station — $22.4B (THE Boeing Company)
- TAS::80 0124::TAS Design, Development, Test&evaluation of Project Orion — $15.5B (Lockheed Martin Corp)
- Provide Developmental Hardware and Test Articles, and Manufacture and Assemble Ares I Upper Stages. the Upper Stage (US) Element IS an Integral Part of the Ares I Launch Vehicle and Provides the Second Stage of Flight. the US Element IS Responsible for the Roll Control During the First Stage Burn and Separation; and Will Provide the Guidance and Navigation, Command and Data Handling, and Other Avionics Functions for the Ares I During ALL Phases of the Ascent Flight. the US Element IS a NEW Design That Emphasizes Safety, Operability, and Minimum Life Cycle Cost. the Overall Design, Development, Test and Evaluation (ddt&e), Production, and Sustaining Engineering Efforts Include Activities Performed by Three Organizations; the Nasa Design Team (NDT), the Upper Stage Production Contractor (uspc) and the Instrument Unit Production Contractor (iupc). for Clarity, the Uspc Will BE Referred to AS the Contractor Throughout This Document. Nasa IS Responsible for the Integration of the Primary Elements of the Ares I Launch Vehicle Including: the First Stage, US Including Instrument Unit (IU), and US Engine; and Will Also Integrate the Ares I Launch Vehicle AT the Launch Site. Nasa IS Responsible for the Ddt&e, Including Technical and Programmatic Integration of the US Subsystems and Government-Furnished Property. Nasa Will Lead the Effort to Develop the Requirements and Specifications of the US Element, the Development Plan and Testing Requirements, and ALL Design Documentation, Initial Manufacturing and Assembly Process Planning, Logistics Planning, and Operations Support Planning. Development, Qualification, and Acceptance Testing Will BE Conducted by Nasa and the Contractor to Satisfy Requirements and for Risk Mitigation. Nasa IS Responsible for the Overall Upper Stage Verification and Validation Process and Will Require Support From the Contractor. the Contractor IS Responsible for the Manufacture and Assembly of the Upper Stage Test Flight and Operational Upper Stage Units Including the Installation of Upper Stage Instrument Unit, the Government-Furnished US Engine, Booster Separation Motors, and Other Government-Furnished Property. a Description of the Nasa Managed and Performed Efforts IS Contained in the US Work Packages and Will BE Made Available to the Contractor to Ensure Their Understanding of the Roles and Responsibilities of the NDT, Iupc, and Contractor During the Design, Development, and Operation of the US Element. the US Conceptual Design Described in the Uso-Clv-Se-25704 US Design Definition Document (DDD) IS the Baseline Design for This Contract. the Contractors Early Role Will BE to Provide Producibility Engineering Support to Nasa VIA the Established US Office Structure and to Provide Inputs Into the Final Design Configuration, Specifications, and Standards. Nasa Will Transition the Manufacturing and Assembly, Logistics Support Infrastructure, Configuration Management, and the Sustaining Engineering Functions to the Contractor AT the KEY Points During the Development and Implementation of the Program Currently Planned to Occur NO Later Than 90 Days After the Completion of the Following Major Milestones: Manufacturing and Assembly US Preliminary Design Review (PDR) Logistics Support Infrastructure US PDR Configuration Management US Critical Design Review CDR) Sustaining Engineering US Design Certification Review (DCR) After the Completion of an Orderly Transition of Roles and Responsibilities to the Contractor, Nasa Will Assume an Insight Role Into the Contractors Production, Sustaining Engineering, and Operations Support of the Ares I US Test Program and Flight Hardware. After DCR, the Contractor Will BE Responsible for Sustaining Engineering PER SOW Section 4.7, AS Necessary to Maintain and Support the US Configuration and for Production and Operations Support — $10.5B (THE Boeing Company)
- Space Program Operations Contract (spoc) — $8.5B (United Space Alliance, LLC)
- Joint Us/Russian Human Space Flight Activities — $4.7B (Russia Space Agency)
View all National Aeronautics and Space Administration contracts →