NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory FFRDC contract with Caltech valued at $39.1M for R&D in physical, engineering, and life sciences

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $39,111,882 ($39.1M)

Contractor: California Institute of Technology

Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Start Date: 2012-10-01

End Date: 2020-09-30

Contract Duration: 2,921 days

Daily Burn Rate: $13.4K/day

Competition Type: NOT COMPETED

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: IGF::CL::IGF MARS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 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.

Place of Performance

Location: PASADENA, LOS ANGELES County, CALIFORNIA, 91109

State: California Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $39.1 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY for work described as: IGF::CL::IGF MARS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 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 RELATIONS… Key points: 1. This contract funds the operation of a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC), the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), managed by the California Institute of Technology. 2. JPL's primary mission under this agreement is to support NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) across Earth science, planetary science, and other scientific areas. 3. The contract structure involves task orders issued by NASA, indicating a flexible approach to project execution. 4. The duration of the contract is substantial, spanning approximately 8 years, suggesting long-term research and development objectives. 5. The nature of FFRDCs implies a unique relationship focused on specialized research needs rather than typical procurement. 6. The cost-plus-fixed-fee (CPFF) contract type suggests that NASA reimburses JPL for allowable costs plus a fixed fee, with potential for adjustments.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $39.1 million over nearly 8 years for operating a major FFRDC like JPL appears reasonable given its specialized nature and critical role in NASA's scientific endeavors. Benchmarking FFRDC operations is complex, but this value aligns with the significant resources required for advanced research and development in space exploration and Earth sciences. The CPFF structure allows for cost control while incentivizing efficient completion of defined tasks.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: sole-source

This contract is structured as a sole-source agreement, which is typical for FFRDCs. FFRDCs are established to meet specific long-term research and development needs of a sponsoring agency, and their unique structure and mission often preclude open competition. The selection of Caltech to operate JPL is based on its established expertise and historical role.

Taxpayer Impact: For taxpayers, sole-source FFRDC contracts ensure dedicated, specialized research capabilities are maintained for critical national objectives, though they bypass the price discovery mechanisms of competitive bidding.

Public Impact

Benefits NASA's Science Mission Directorate by providing advanced research and development capabilities. Delivers scientific research and technological advancements in areas such as Earth science and planetary science. Impacts the scientific community through the dissemination of research findings and technological innovations. Supports a highly skilled workforce in aerospace engineering, physics, and related scientific fields.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

• Potential for cost overruns inherent in CPFF contracts if not closely monitored.
• Reliance on a single entity (Caltech/JPL) for critical research may limit alternative approaches.
• The long-term nature of the contract could lead to inertia if research directions are not periodically re-evaluated.

Positive Signals

• Established track record of JPL in successful space missions and scientific discovery.
• FFRDC structure provides a stable, long-term platform for critical national research needs.
• Strong partnership between NASA and a leading academic institution (Caltech) fosters innovation.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development (R&D) sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. The R&D sector is characterized by innovation, long development cycles, and significant investment. FFRDCs like JPL represent a unique segment within this sector, designed for long-term, strategic research support to government agencies, distinct from typical commercial R&D contracts.

Small Business Impact

This contract is not directly related to small business set-asides, as it funds the operation of a large FFRDC. However, JPL, as a major research institution, may engage small businesses as subcontractors for specific components or services, contributing to the broader small business ecosystem within the aerospace and technology sectors.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight is provided by NASA through the National Management Office (NMO) and contracting officers who issue task orders and monitor performance. The FFRDC structure itself implies a high degree of accountability to the sponsoring agency. Transparency is generally maintained through reporting requirements and public dissemination of research outcomes, though specific operational details may be proprietary.

Related Government Programs

• NASA Research and Development Contracts
• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs)
• Space Exploration Programs
• Earth Science Research Initiatives
• Planetary Science Missions

Risk Flags

• Sole-source nature limits competitive pressure on pricing.
• Cost-plus contract type requires diligent oversight to manage costs.
• Long-term nature of FFRDC operations may require periodic strategic re-evaluation.

Tags

research-and-development, nasa, california, sole-source, ffrdc, space-exploration, science-mission-directorate, cost-plus-fixed-fee, nonprofit, academic-institution

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $39.1 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. IGF::CL::IGF MARS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT 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 T

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 $39.1 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2012-10-01. End: 2020-09-30.

What is the historical spending trend for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory FFRDC contract with NASA?

Historical spending data for this specific contract, identified as IGF::CL::IGF MARS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, shows a total value of $39,111,882.20 over its period of performance from October 1, 2012, to September 30, 2020. This represents an average annual expenditure of approximately $4.9 million. While this specific contract value is provided, a comprehensive trend analysis would require examining all prior and subsequent contracts or modifications related to the operation of the JPL FFRDC by Caltech to identify patterns in funding levels, scope changes, and overall investment over a longer historical period.

How does the cost-plus-fixed-fee (CPFF) structure impact the value for money in this contract?

The Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) contract structure means NASA reimburses the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) for all allowable costs incurred in operating the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) FFRDC, plus a predetermined fixed fee. This structure is often used for research and development where the scope of work can be uncertain or evolve. For value for money, it relies heavily on NASA's ability to accurately estimate costs and effectively monitor expenditures to ensure they are reasonable and necessary. The fixed fee provides a degree of cost certainty for the contractor, but the primary incentive for cost control lies with NASA's oversight. If NASA's oversight is robust, it can achieve good value by securing specialized R&D capabilities. However, CPFF contracts carry a risk of cost overruns if not managed diligently, potentially impacting the overall value proposition compared to fixed-price arrangements.

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) used by NASA to assess JPL's performance under this FFRDC contract?

While specific KPIs are not detailed in the provided data, FFRDC contracts, especially those for research and development like this one with JPL, typically involve performance assessments tied to the successful execution of task orders issued by NASA. Key indicators would likely include the timely completion of research objectives, the quality and scientific merit of research outcomes, adherence to budget constraints within task orders, successful development and testing of technologies, and the effective management of personnel and resources. NASA's Science Mission Directorate would be a primary stakeholder in evaluating JPL's contributions to its scientific goals, such as advancements in Earth science, planetary science, and astrophysics, often measured through peer-reviewed publications, successful mission operations, and technological innovations.

What is the risk profile associated with this sole-source FFRDC contract?

The primary risk associated with this sole-source FFRDC contract is the lack of direct price competition, which can sometimes lead to less aggressive cost management compared to competitively bid contracts. However, FFRDCs are established precisely because their unique, long-term, and specialized nature often precludes traditional competition. The risk is mitigated by the close, ongoing relationship between NASA and Caltech/JPL, where performance and cost are continuously monitored. Other risks include potential scope creep within task orders if not managed tightly, reliance on a single entity's expertise (though JPL is world-renowned), and the inherent uncertainties in advanced R&D projects. NASA's robust oversight mechanisms are crucial for managing these risks effectively.

How does this contract contribute to NASA's broader strategic goals in space exploration and scientific discovery?

This contract is fundamental to NASA's strategic goals. By funding the operation of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as an FFRDC, NASA ensures access to a world-class institution dedicated to advancing space exploration and scientific discovery. JPL's work under this contract directly supports NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) by enabling research in critical areas like Earth science (monitoring climate change, natural disasters), planetary science (exploring Mars, outer planets, moons), and astrophysics (understanding the universe). The contract facilitates the development of cutting-edge technologies, the design and operation of robotic space missions, and the analysis of scientific data, all of which are essential for achieving NASA's objectives of expanding human knowledge and pushing the boundaries of exploration.

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: NOT COMPETED

Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 4800 OAK GROVE DR, PASADENA, CA, 91109

Business Categories: Category Business, Federally Funded Research and Development Corp, Government, U.S. National Government, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $88,904,310

Exercised Options: $88,904,310

Current Obligation: $39,111,882

Actual Outlays: $85,929

Contract Characteristics

Multi-Year Contract: Yes

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: NNN12AA01C

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline

Start Date: 2012-10-01

Current End Date: 2020-09-30

Potential End Date: 2020-09-30 00:00:00

Last Modified: 2022-08-03

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 →

Explore Related Government Spending