NASA’s Exciting Hydrosphere Research Contract Recompete: What You Need to Know
NASA has recently taken a significant step toward advancing our understanding of Earth’s systems by revealing plans for the recompete of its Hydrosphere, Biosphere, and Geophysics (HBG) contract. This initiative promises to bolster scientific research services essential for studying our planet’s delicate ecosystems, water resources, and climate dynamics.
Breaking Down the Draft Solicitation
On Tuesday, NASA presented a draft solicitation outlining the framework for this second edition of the HBG contract, which will span five years. Notably, this opportunity is being set aside for small businesses, emphasizing NASA’s commitment to fostering innovation in the private sector.
For a deep dive into the specifics, explore the draft solicitation here.
Historical Context: The Current Contract
The existing contract, awarded to Science Systems and Applications Inc. in 2020, comes with a ceiling of $425 million and covers a potential five-year period. As of now, according to data from GovTribe, NASA has committed approximately 88% of this budget—around $327 million—with the current project reaching its conclusion on November 30.
What is HBG and What Does It Do?
NASA’s HBG plays a pivotal role in the agency’s efforts to integrate and advance technology aimed at tackling critical global issues, specifically in the areas of water resources, land and ocean ecosystems, and changes in the Earth’s cryosphere. This initiative is not just a contract; it’s part of a broader mission based out of the Goddard Space Flight Center’s Earth Sciences Division. Here, the Terrestrial Information Systems Laboratory focuses on turning data from Earth-observing satellites into actionable insights.
Key Support Services Highlighted
The statement of work for the new HBG contract outlines support services in six primary areas:
- Science: Conducting innovative research to expand our knowledge base.
- Computing: Leveraging advanced technology for data analysis and modeling.
- Instrumentation Development: Creating tools that enhance data collection and measurement.
- Calibration and Validation: Ensuring that data integrity meets scientific standards.
- Field Campaigns: Implementing hands-on research initiatives in various environments.
- Communications and Public Outreach: Engaging the community and sharing significant findings.
Make Your Voice Heard
As NASA moves forward with this exciting recompete, comments on the draft request for proposals are due by April 22. This is a unique opportunity for interested parties to contribute to shaping a vital aspect of NASA’s scientific research agenda.
In conclusion, NASA’s planned recompete for the Hydrosphere, Biosphere, and Geophysics contract not only signifies a continuation of groundbreaking work in Earth science but also opens the door for small businesses to play an integral role in our planet’s future sustainability. Engage with this initiative and make an impact on global ecological research!
