NASA's $230M Advanced Electric Propulsion System contract aims to boost deep space exploration capabilities
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $230,228,992 ($230.2M)
Contractor: Aerojet Rocketdyne, Inc.
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2016-05-16
End Date: 2027-08-04
Contract Duration: 4,097 days
Daily Burn Rate: $56.2K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 3
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: IGF::OT::IGF NASA, THROUGH THE SPACE TECHNOLOGY MISSION DIRECTORATE (STMD,) SEEKS TO DEMONSTRATE AN ADVANCED SOLAR ELECTRIC PROPULSION (EP) SYSTEM THAT WILL ENABLE FUTURE DEEP SPACE HUMAN AND ROBOTIC EXPLORATION APPLICABLE TO THE UNITED STATES PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTOR SPACE NEEDS. THE PURPOSE OF THE ADVANCED ELECTRIC PROPULSION (EP) SYSTEM (AEPS) CONTRACT IS THE DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF EP STRING SETS TO SUPPORT AN ADVANCED SEP DEMONSTRATION MISSION. DURING THE CONTRACT BASE PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE, THE CONTRACTOR WILL DEVELOP, TEST, AND DELIVER ENGINEERING DEVELOPMENT END ITEMS THAT WILL REDUCE THE RISK OF DEVELOPING THE FLIGHT END ITEMS. DURING THE OPTION PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE, IF EXERCISED, THE CONTRACTOR WILL DEVELOP, VERIFY, AND DELIVER THE FLIGHT END ITEMS.
Place of Performance
Location: REDMOND, KING County, WASHINGTON, 98052
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $230.2 million to AEROJET ROCKETDYNE, INC. for work described as: IGF::OT::IGF NASA, THROUGH THE SPACE TECHNOLOGY MISSION DIRECTORATE (STMD,) SEEKS TO DEMONSTRATE AN ADVANCED SOLAR ELECTRIC PROPULSION (EP) SYSTEM THAT WILL ENABLE FUTURE DEEP SPACE HUMAN AND ROBOTIC EXPLORATION APPLICABLE TO THE UNITED STATES PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTOR SPACE NEED… Key points: 1. Focuses on developing and delivering advanced solar electric propulsion systems for future space missions. 2. Contract includes both development and delivery phases, with options for flight-ready hardware. 3. Aims to reduce risk for future deep space human and robotic exploration. 4. Applicable to both U.S. private and public sector space needs. 5. Contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, indicating potential for cost overruns. 6. Long performance period suggests complex development and testing requirements.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The total contract value of $230.2 million over approximately 11 years for the development and delivery of advanced electric propulsion systems appears reasonable given the complexity and long-term nature of deep space technology development. However, the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type carries inherent risks of cost escalation if not managed tightly. Benchmarking against similar advanced propulsion system development contracts is challenging due to the specialized nature of this technology, but the duration and scope suggest a significant investment.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple bidders likely had the opportunity to submit proposals. This competitive process is generally expected to yield better pricing and innovation. The presence of 3 bidders suggests a reasonable level of competition for this specialized technology.
Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it encourages a wider range of solutions and potentially drives down costs through market forces.
Public Impact
Benefits the U.S. space exploration sector by advancing critical propulsion technology. Delivers advanced solar electric propulsion systems for potential use in future NASA missions. Has broad implications for both government and commercial space ventures. Supports the development of next-generation spaceflight capabilities.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type can lead to cost overruns if not closely monitored.
- Long contract duration (over 11 years) increases the risk of technological obsolescence or shifting program priorities.
- Development of novel technology inherently carries technical risks and potential for delays.
- Reliance on a single contractor for critical development phases could pose a risk if performance issues arise.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a robust selection process.
- Focus on advanced technology development aligns with strategic national space goals.
- Potential to significantly enhance U.S. capabilities in deep space exploration.
- Contract structure includes phased delivery, allowing for risk mitigation during development.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development (R&D) sector, specifically focusing on advanced physical sciences and engineering for space applications. The market for advanced space propulsion systems is highly specialized, with a limited number of key players. NASA's investment in electric propulsion is crucial for enabling more efficient and capable deep space missions, aligning with broader trends in the aerospace industry towards electric and advanced propulsion technologies.
Small Business Impact
The contract data indicates that small business participation (sb) is false, and there is no specific mention of small business set-asides. This suggests that the primary contractor, Aerojet Rocketdyne, Inc., is a large business. There is no information provided on subcontracting plans for small businesses, which could be an area for further investigation to ensure opportunities for smaller firms within the broader space technology ecosystem.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would primarily fall under NASA's internal program management and contracting officers. Given the R&D nature and long duration, regular technical reviews and financial audits would be expected. The Inspector General's office for NASA would have jurisdiction for investigating fraud, waste, and abuse related to this contract. Transparency is facilitated through contract awards databases, but detailed performance metrics may not be publicly available.
Related Government Programs
- NASA Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) programs
- Advanced Propulsion Systems Research
- Deep Space Exploration Initiatives
- Solar Electric Propulsion Development
Risk Flags
- Cost Overrun Risk (CPFF)
- Technical Performance Risk
- Long-Term Reliability
- Schedule Delays
- Technological Obsolescence
Tags
nasa, research-and-development, space-technology, electric-propulsion, deep-space-exploration, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, aerojet-rocketdyne, washington, definitive-contract, advanced-technology
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $230.2 million to AEROJET ROCKETDYNE, INC.. IGF::OT::IGF NASA, THROUGH THE SPACE TECHNOLOGY MISSION DIRECTORATE (STMD,) SEEKS TO DEMONSTRATE AN ADVANCED SOLAR ELECTRIC PROPULSION (EP) SYSTEM THAT WILL ENABLE FUTURE DEEP SPACE HUMAN AND ROBOTIC EXPLORATION APPLICABLE TO THE UNITED STATES PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTOR SPACE NEEDS. THE PURPOSE OF THE ADVANCED ELECTRIC PROPULSION (EP) SYSTEM (AEPS) CONTRACT IS THE DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF EP STRING SETS TO SUPPORT AN ADVANCED SEP DEMONSTRATION MISSION. DURING THE CONTRACT BASE PERIOD OF PERFOR
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is AEROJET ROCKETDYNE, INC..
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 $230.2 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2016-05-16. End: 2027-08-04.
What is the historical performance of Aerojet Rocketdyne, Inc. on similar NASA R&D contracts?
Aerojet Rocketdyne, Inc. has a long history of working with NASA on various propulsion systems, including both chemical and electric propulsion technologies. They have been involved in numerous research and development contracts for NASA, contributing to advancements in space propulsion. While specific performance metrics for past contracts are not detailed here, their continued selection for complex projects like the Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) contract suggests a track record of meeting technical requirements. However, like many large aerospace contractors, they may have experienced contract modifications, cost adjustments, or schedule changes on previous projects, which are common in long-term, high-risk R&D endeavors. A deeper dive into their contract history with NASA would reveal specific instances of successful delivery, challenges encountered, and how those were resolved.
How does the cost of this contract compare to similar advanced propulsion system development efforts?
Direct cost comparisons for highly specialized R&D contracts like the AEPS are challenging due to the unique nature of the technology and varying program scopes. However, the total contract value of approximately $230 million spread over more than 11 years for the development and delivery of advanced solar electric propulsion systems is substantial. This figure reflects the significant investment required for cutting-edge space technology. Comparable efforts in advanced propulsion, such as ion thrusters or Hall effect thrusters development for deep space missions, often involve multi-year development cycles and costs in the tens to hundreds of millions of dollars. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure, while common for R&D, means the final cost could fluctuate. Benchmarking would ideally involve comparing the cost per unit of thrust, specific impulse achieved, or power levels developed against other advanced propulsion R&D programs.
What are the primary technical risks associated with the development of this advanced electric propulsion system?
The primary technical risks associated with the AEPS contract revolve around the novel aspects of the advanced solar electric propulsion system being developed. These include ensuring the long-term reliability and durability of components under the extreme conditions of space, particularly for deep space missions which require extended operational lifetimes. Achieving the desired performance metrics, such as specific impulse and thrust levels, with high efficiency is another key risk. The integration of new materials, power processing units, and thruster designs presents challenges. Furthermore, scaling the system to meet the demands of future human and robotic exploration missions, while maintaining safety and mission assurance, is a significant technical hurdle. The contract's phased approach, with an initial development period before flight hardware delivery, is designed to mitigate some of these risks by allowing for iterative testing and refinement.
What is the expected impact of this contract on NASA's future deep space exploration capabilities?
This contract is expected to have a significant positive impact on NASA's future deep space exploration capabilities by providing a more advanced and efficient propulsion system. Solar electric propulsion (SEP) offers higher specific impulse compared to traditional chemical rockets, meaning it can achieve greater velocity changes with less propellant. This translates to reduced launch mass, shorter transit times for certain missions, or the ability to carry larger payloads to distant destinations. The development of these advanced EP systems is crucial for enabling ambitious future missions, including human missions to Mars and robotic exploration of the outer solar system. By demonstrating and delivering these systems, NASA aims to mature the technology, reduce risks for future flight missions, and potentially lower the overall cost of deep space exploration.
How has NASA's spending on electric propulsion R&D evolved over the past decade?
NASA's spending on electric propulsion (EP) R&D has seen a generally increasing trend over the past decade, driven by the recognized benefits of EP for deep space missions. While specific annual figures fluctuate based on program priorities and budget allocations, there has been a sustained commitment to advancing EP technologies. This includes investments in various EP concepts like Hall thrusters, ion engines, and pulsed plasma thrusters, as well as supporting infrastructure and component development. The AEPS contract represents a significant, multi-year investment within this broader trend. The agency's strategic plans consistently highlight the importance of advanced propulsion for achieving ambitious exploration goals, underscoring the ongoing need for R&D funding in this area. This sustained focus reflects the maturation of EP technology from experimental stages to viable options for operational missions.
What are the implications of the 'Cost Plus Fixed Fee' (CPFF) contract type for budget certainty?
The 'Cost Plus Fixed Fee' (CPFF) contract type introduces a degree of uncertainty regarding the final cost, although it aims to provide a balance between contractor incentive and government oversight. Under CPFF, the contractor is reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred during performance, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. While the fee is fixed, the total cost is not. This means that if the contractor incurs higher-than-expected costs due to unforeseen technical challenges, material price increases, or inefficiencies, the government will pay those increased costs. The fixed fee provides the contractor with an incentive to control costs, as their profit is not directly tied to the total expenditure. However, the government bears the risk of cost overruns. Effective oversight, detailed cost tracking, and robust negotiation of the initial fee are crucial to managing the budget implications of CPFF contracts.
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 › Space R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Solicitation ID: NNC15ZCH014R
Offers Received: 3
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: L3harris Technologies, Inc
Address: 11411 139TH PL NE, REDMOND, WA, 98052
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $236,214,092
Exercised Options: $236,214,092
Current Obligation: $230,228,992
Actual Outlays: $145,907,032
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 99
Total Subaward Amount: $26,623,124
Contract Characteristics
Multi-Year Contract: Yes
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Timeline
Start Date: 2016-05-16
Current End Date: 2027-08-04
Potential End Date: 2027-08-04 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-03-26
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