NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory contract with Caltech for Earth Science R&D valued at over $36 million
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $36,168,409 ($36.2M)
Contractor: California Institute of Technology
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2012-10-01
End Date: 2019-09-30
Contract Duration: 2,555 days
Daily Burn Rate: $14.2K/day
Competition Type: NOT COMPETED
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: IGF::CL::IGF SMD, R&A, EARTH SCIENCE, REASON PROGRAM FY2004-FY2008 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
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $36.2 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY for work described as: IGF::CL::IGF SMD, R&A, EARTH SCIENCE, REASON PROGRAM FY2004-FY2008 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… Key points: 1. Contract supports NASA's Science Mission Directorate, focusing on Earth Science research. 2. Operates as a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) for NASA. 3. Contract duration spans nearly 7 years, from October 2012 to September 2019. 4. Work is designated through task orders issued by NASA contracting officers. 5. The contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, common for R&D projects. 6. JPL's primary mission is to advance scientific objectives outlined in NASA's Science Plan.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of over $36 million for a nearly 7-year period for FFRDC operations appears reasonable given the specialized nature of JPL's research. Benchmarking against similar FFRDC contracts is challenging due to their unique structures, but the cost-plus-fixed-fee structure allows for flexibility in research while managing contractor profit. The value reflects ongoing investment in critical Earth science research.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: sole-source
This contract was not competed and was awarded sole-source to the California Institute of Technology for the operation of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). JPL is a unique FFRDC managed by Caltech for NASA, making a competitive procurement for its core operations impractical and not aligned with the FFRDC model. This approach ensures continuity and leverages JPL's established expertise.
Taxpayer Impact: While sole-source awards can sometimes lead to higher costs, for FFRDCs like JPL, the established relationship and specialized capabilities are deemed essential for NASA's mission, justifying the lack of competition.
Public Impact
Benefits NASA's Science Mission Directorate by advancing Earth science knowledge. Delivers critical research and development for understanding Earth's systems. Geographic impact is national, with research contributing to global environmental understanding. Workforce implications include supporting highly skilled scientists and engineers at JPL. Enhances NASA's capability to conduct cutting-edge space exploration and Earth observation.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for cost overruns inherent in Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts if not closely monitored.
- Sole-source nature limits opportunities for external innovation and cost-saving measures from competition.
Positive Signals
- Leverages a unique, established FFRDC (JPL) with a proven track record in space and Earth science.
- Contract aligns with NASA's strategic goals for Earth science research and exploration.
- Long-term relationship fosters deep institutional knowledge and efficient project execution.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. The market for specialized aerospace research and development is dominated by a few key institutions and contractors, with FFRDCs like JPL playing a crucial role. NASA's spending in this area is critical for maintaining technological leadership and advancing scientific understanding, often involving multi-year, high-value agreements.
Small Business Impact
As a sole-source contract for the operation of an FFRDC, there are no direct small business set-aside provisions. However, JPL, as a large research institution, likely engages small businesses as subcontractors for specialized services or equipment, contributing to the broader small business ecosystem indirectly.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight is provided by NASA's Science Mission Directorate and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's management office. The contract structure, including task orders and reporting requirements, facilitates accountability. As an FFRDC, JPL is subject to specific oversight protocols designed to ensure alignment with NASA's objectives and responsible use of federal funds.
Related Government Programs
- NASA Science Mission Directorate Programs
- Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs)
- Earth Science Research Initiatives
- Aerospace Research and Development Contracts
Risk Flags
- Sole-source award may limit price competition.
- Cost-plus contracts require robust oversight to manage costs.
Tags
research-and-development, nasa, california, sole-source, cost-plus-fixed-fee, earth-science, ffrdc, jet-propulsion-laboratory, science-mission-directorate, long-term-contract
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $36.2 million to CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. IGF::CL::IGF SMD, R&A, EARTH SCIENCE, REASON PROGRAM FY2004-FY2008 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
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 $36.2 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2012-10-01. End: 2019-09-30.
What is the historical spending trend for NASA's FFRDC contracts, particularly for JPL?
NASA's reliance on FFRDCs like JPL for specialized research and development has been consistent over the years. Historical data indicates significant, multi-year funding commitments to these centers, reflecting their critical role in advancing space exploration and Earth science. While specific figures fluctuate based on program needs and budget allocations, JPL has consistently received substantial funding from NASA, often in the hundreds of millions of dollars annually, to support its diverse missions. This particular contract, valued at over $36 million, represents a portion of that ongoing investment, likely covering specific research objectives within Earth Science during the specified period. Analyzing broader trends requires examining NASA's overall R&D budget and its allocation to FFRDCs over extended periods.
How does the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type influence cost control for R&D projects like this?
The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type is common for research and development where the scope of work can be uncertain or evolve. In this structure, the contractor (JPL) is reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. This provides flexibility for NASA to adapt research directions as needed. However, it places a significant emphasis on NASA's oversight to ensure costs are reasonable and allocable. Without robust monitoring, there's a risk of cost overruns, as the contractor is incentivized to complete the work but not necessarily to minimize costs beyond what's necessary to achieve the fixed fee. NASA's contracting officers and technical monitors play a crucial role in managing this risk through regular reviews and audits.
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) typically used to evaluate the success of an FFRDC like JPL under such a contract?
Evaluating the success of an FFRDC like JPL under a contract like this involves a combination of technical, programmatic, and financial metrics. Key performance indicators often include the successful completion of research objectives as defined in task orders, the quality and impact of scientific publications and discoveries, the development and deployment of new technologies or instruments, and adherence to project timelines and budgets. For Earth science, KPIs might also relate to the accuracy and utility of data collected and analyzed, contributions to climate modeling, or advancements in understanding Earth systems. NASA's oversight typically involves regular progress reviews, technical assessments, and milestone achievements, ensuring JPL meets its scientific and operational goals.
What is the typical duration and value range for NASA contracts supporting FFRDCs for specialized research?
Contracts supporting FFRDCs like JPL for specialized research are typically long-term, often spanning multiple years, reflecting the nature of complex scientific endeavors. Durations can range from 3 to 10 years or more, often with options for extension. The value of these contracts can vary significantly based on the scope of work, the specific research areas, and the overall budget allocated by NASA. While some task orders might be in the millions, the overarching management and operations contracts for FFRDCs can run into hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars over their lifespan. This specific contract, valued at over $36 million for a period of nearly 7 years, represents a focused investment within a broader FFRDC relationship.
How does the 'sole-source' designation for FFRDC operations impact accountability and transparency compared to competed contracts?
The sole-source designation for FFRDC operations, like JPL's contract with NASA, stems from the unique nature and purpose of FFRDCs – to provide long-term, objective research and development capabilities to the government that cannot be readily obtained from the private sector. While this bypasses the competitive bidding process, accountability and transparency are maintained through other mechanisms. NASA maintains significant oversight through contract management, task order definition, performance reviews, and financial audits. FFRDCs are also subject to specific government regulations and reporting requirements. Transparency is often achieved through public dissemination of research findings and adherence to established R&D processes, though the initial award decision is not subject to competitive scrutiny.
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: $39,033,160
Exercised Options: $39,033,160
Current Obligation: $36,168,409
Actual Outlays: $94,998
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: 2019-09-30
Potential End Date: 2019-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2024-06-07
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