The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) proposes to negotiate on a sole source basis contract under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) with the University of Colorado for research support for the study on Chip-Scale Atomic Clock. The Optical Frequency Measurements group at NIST is currently carrying our a research program to develop compact atomic clocks and part of the program is a collaboration with the Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Materials Research Center at the University of Colorado. The FLCMRC is currently developing wall coatings for application to these compact atomic clocks. This project will examine the locking of local oscillators to atomic resonances. Specific tasks will include: 1) To set up a table-top optical experiment using which atoms can be probed by a microwave oscillator. 2) Evaluate the range of LO stability needed to accomplish effective locking of the LO to the atomic resonance. Design and build appropriate electronics to accomplish this locking. 3) Miniaturize the full system by identifying appropriate compact commercial Los and locking one of theses to a compact atomic system being developed in parallel within the program. This procurement is being conducted per FAR Part 13.1, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (NTE $100K). This synopsis is issued for information only. No competitive solicitation is planned. Information submitted in response to this notice will be used solely to determine whether or not use of competitive procedures to fulfill this requirement would be in the Government's best interest and must address qualifications pertinent to this requirement. Terms and Conditions can be found on http://www.arnet.gov/far/ and agency level protest procedures can be found on web site http://oamweb.osec.doc.gov/CONOPS/reflib/alp1296.htm. Hard copy in full text available from office address and phone number listed in notice. Anticipated award date August 14, 2002.

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