NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E contract awarded to Caltech for $81M, spanning 7 years

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $80,999,604 ($81.0M)

Contractor: California Institute of Technology

Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Start Date: 2012-10-01

End Date: 2019-10-31

Contract Duration: 2,586 days

Daily Burn Rate: $31.3K/day

Competition Type: NOT COMPETED

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: IGF::CL::IGF MARS EXPLORATION ROVER PROJECT: PHASE E 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 $81.0 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY for work described as: IGF::CL::IGF MARS EXPLORATION ROVER PROJECT: PHASE E 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 T… Key points: 1. Contract supports operation of the federally funded Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) for Mars exploration. 2. Focuses on NASA's Science Mission Directorate objectives in Earth Science and other areas. 3. Contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, indicating potential for cost overruns. 4. Long duration of 7 years suggests a complex, multi-phase project. 5. Sole-source award to a non-profit educational institution for specialized R&D. 6. Performance period extends over a significant timeframe, requiring sustained oversight.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value of approximately $81 million over seven years for operating the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E appears reasonable given the specialized nature of space exploration and research and development. However, the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type warrants careful monitoring to ensure costs remain within projected bounds. Benchmarking against similar large-scale, long-term space science projects is challenging due to their unique scope and limited number of comparable entities.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: sole-source

This contract was awarded on a sole-source basis to the California Institute of Technology, which operates the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). JPL is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) uniquely positioned to conduct this type of advanced space exploration research. The sole-source nature is justified by the specialized capabilities and established infrastructure of JPL, making direct competition impractical.

Taxpayer Impact: While sole-source awards can sometimes lead to higher prices, in this case, the selection of a specialized FFRDC like JPL is likely necessary for mission success. Taxpayers benefit from the unique expertise and facilities dedicated to critical scientific endeavors.

Public Impact

Benefits the scientific community through data and discoveries from Mars exploration. Delivers critical operational support for NASA's Mars exploration missions. Geographic impact is global, with scientific findings shared worldwide. Workforce implications include highly skilled scientists, engineers, and technicians at JPL.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

• Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type may incentivize cost overruns if not closely managed.
• Long contract duration requires sustained oversight to ensure continued alignment with NASA objectives.
• Sole-source nature limits opportunities for competitive pricing and innovation from other entities.

Positive Signals

• Award to a renowned institution (Caltech/JPL) with a proven track record in space exploration.
• Contract directly supports critical national scientific objectives in space exploration.
• Clear designation of work through task orders provides a structured approach to project execution.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences sector, specifically focusing on space exploration. The market for such specialized R&D is highly concentrated, with a few key institutions and government agencies dominating. NASA's spending in this area is crucial for advancing scientific knowledge and technological capabilities, with contracts like this representing significant investments in long-term scientific goals.

Small Business Impact

This contract does not appear to involve small business set-asides, as it is a sole-source award to a large non-profit educational institution. Subcontracting opportunities for small businesses may exist within the broader JPL ecosystem, but are not explicitly detailed in the provided data. The primary focus is on the core research and development capabilities of the prime contractor.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight is managed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) through its Management Office. As a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC), JPL operates under specific NASA guidelines and reporting requirements. Transparency is expected through regular progress reports and milestone reviews, though specific details on IG jurisdiction or public accessibility of detailed financial data are not provided.

Related Government Programs

• NASA Mars Exploration Program
• Jet Propulsion Laboratory Operations
• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs)
• Space Science Research Contracts

Risk Flags

• Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type requires diligent cost monitoring.
• Sole-source award limits competitive pressure on pricing.
• Long contract duration necessitates sustained oversight.

Tags

nasa, caltech, jpl, mars-exploration-rover, r&d, sole-source, cost-plus-fixed-fee, space-exploration, california, research-and-development, science-mission-directorate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $81.0 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. IGF::CL::IGF MARS EXPLORATION ROVER PROJECT: PHASE E 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

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 $81.0 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2012-10-01. End: 2019-10-31.

What is the historical spending trend for the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E with the California Institute of Technology?

The provided data indicates a total contract value of $80,999,603.65 for the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E, with a start date of October 1, 2012, and an end date of October 31, 2019, spanning approximately 7 years. This represents the total obligated amount for this specific phase. Without historical data for prior phases (A through D) or subsequent phases, a trend analysis is not possible. However, the consistent award to Caltech/JPL for this critical project suggests a long-term commitment and established relationship for managing complex space missions.

How does the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type impact the risk profile for this NASA contract?

The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type means that the contractor (California Institute of Technology/JPL) is reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. This structure shifts a significant portion of the cost risk to the government (NASA). While it incentivizes the contractor to complete the work, it can also lead to cost overruns if the initial cost estimates are inaccurate or if unforeseen issues arise during the project. NASA's oversight is crucial to monitor expenditures and ensure that costs remain reasonable and allocable to the contract objectives for the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E.

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) NASA likely uses to evaluate the success of the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E?

Key performance indicators for a project like the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E would likely focus on scientific return, operational efficiency, and adherence to schedule and budget. For scientific return, this could include the quantity and quality of scientific data collected, successful deployment and operation of scientific instruments, and the achievement of specific research objectives outlined in the Science Mission Directorate's plan. Operational efficiency might be measured by rover uptime, successful execution of commands, and effective data transmission. While the contract is CPFF, adherence to projected cost milestones and timely completion of task orders would also be critical performance indicators for NASA's evaluation.

What is the significance of awarding this contract to a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) like JPL?

Awarding the Mars Exploration Rover Project Phase E contract to a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), operated by Caltech, offers several advantages. FFRDCs are established to meet specific long-term research and development needs of the government that cannot be met as effectively by the private sector or government laboratories alone. JPL possesses unique expertise, infrastructure, and a long history of success in deep space exploration missions. This sole-source approach ensures continuity, leverages specialized knowledge, and provides NASA with a trusted partner dedicated to national scientific goals, avoiding the complexities and potential inefficiencies of competing for such highly specialized capabilities.

Are there any specific transparency or accountability measures in place for this sole-source FFRDC contract?

While the data doesn't detail specific transparency measures beyond the contract award itself, FFRDCs like JPL operate under a framework of significant government oversight. NASA, as the sponsoring agency, maintains a close relationship and exercises oversight through its Management Office. This typically involves regular reporting on progress, finances, and adherence to program objectives. Accountability is inherent in the FFRDC model, which is established to serve specific government needs with a focus on objective research and development. Public transparency might be limited compared to competitively bid contracts, but NASA's own internal accountability mechanisms and the public release of scientific findings from the mission contribute to overall accountability.

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: $106,776,383

Exercised Options: $106,776,383

Current Obligation: $80,999,604

Actual Outlays: $296

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: 2019-10-31

Potential End Date: 2019-10-31 00:00:00

Last Modified: 2024-08-26

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