NASA awards $27.3M for Cryogenics Engine Research, with Aerojet Rocketdyne as sole contractor
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $27,293,004 ($27.3M)
Contractor: Aerojet Rocketdyne, Inc.
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2005-06-22
End Date: 2013-04-24
Contract Duration: 2,863 days
Daily Burn Rate: $9.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 1
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: 4200109303 RESEARCH, DEEP THROTTLING COMMON EXTENSIBLE CRYOGENICS ENGINE
Place of Performance
Location: PALM BEACH GARDENS, PALM BEACH County, FLORIDA, 33410
State: Florida Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $27.3 million to AEROJET ROCKETDYNE, INC. for work described as: 4200109303 RESEARCH, DEEP THROTTLING COMMON EXTENSIBLE CRYOGENICS ENGINE Key points: 1. Significant investment in advanced propulsion technology. 2. Aerojet Rocketdyne holds a strong position in this specialized market. 3. Potential for long-term technological advancement in space exploration. 4. Limited public information on specific performance metrics.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract value of $27.3M for deep throttling cryogenics engine research appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the work. Benchmarking against similar advanced propulsion R&D contracts is difficult due to limited public data.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: limited
The contract was awarded under a limited competition, likely due to the specialized expertise required. This limits price discovery and potentially increases costs compared to full and open competition.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are supporting advanced aerospace research, with potential long-term benefits for national space capabilities.
Public Impact
Advancement in space propulsion technology. Potential for future NASA missions and scientific discovery. Supports high-tech manufacturing and research jobs.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Limited competition may have inflated costs.
- Lack of detailed performance metrics in public data.
- Long-term technology development risks.
Positive Signals
- Supports critical research in advanced propulsion.
- Contract awarded to a known industry leader.
- Potential for significant technological breakthroughs.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the aerospace and defense sector, specifically focusing on advanced propulsion systems. Spending in this area is critical for maintaining technological superiority in space exploration and defense.
Small Business Impact
The contract was not awarded to a small business. The specialized nature of this research likely favors large, established aerospace contractors with extensive R&D capabilities.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight is managed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The contract type (Cost Plus Fixed Fee) suggests ongoing monitoring of costs and performance is necessary.
Related Government Programs
- Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Propulsion Unit and Propulsion Unit Parts Manufacturing
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contracting
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Programs
Risk Flags
- Limited competition
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type
- Lack of detailed public performance data
- Long development cycle for advanced technology
Tags
guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-propuls, national-aeronautics-and-space-administr, fl, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $27.3 million to AEROJET ROCKETDYNE, INC.. 4200109303 RESEARCH, DEEP THROTTLING COMMON EXTENSIBLE CRYOGENICS ENGINE
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 $27.3 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2005-06-22. End: 2013-04-24.
What is the specific technological advantage gained from this deep throttling cryogenics engine research?
The research aims to develop advanced cryogenics engine technology capable of deep throttling, which allows for precise control over thrust levels. This is crucial for missions requiring variable power, such as lunar landings, deep space maneuvers, and potentially reusable launch systems, enhancing mission flexibility and efficiency.
What are the primary risks associated with this limited competition contract for advanced engine research?
The primary risks include a lack of competitive pressure potentially leading to higher costs than necessary and reduced incentive for maximum innovation. Furthermore, reliance on a single contractor might limit the exploration of alternative technological approaches, and unforeseen technical challenges in cryogenics could lead to cost overruns or schedule delays.
How does this investment contribute to the overall effectiveness of NASA's future space exploration goals?
This investment is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of future NASA missions by developing more efficient and controllable propulsion systems. Improved engine performance directly impacts mission success rates, payload capacity, and the ability to undertake more ambitious scientific endeavors, ultimately advancing NASA's long-term strategic objectives in space exploration.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Manufacturing › Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing › Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Propulsion Unit and Propulsion Unit Parts Manufacturing
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › Space R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Offers Received: 1
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 15270 ENDEAVOR DR, JUPITER, FL, 33478
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: $38,537,906
Exercised Options: $27,293,004
Current Obligation: $27,293,004
Actual Outlays: $323,927
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Timeline
Start Date: 2005-06-22
Current End Date: 2013-04-24
Potential End Date: 2013-04-24 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2023-05-05
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