The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) requires the fabrication and delivery of two (2) lens mount assemblies (SN1 and SN2) for the Binospec spectrograph to be used at the MMT Observatory. Each assembly will contain a total of nine (9) bezels that support the various collimator lenses. The bezel diameters range between 12 inches to 15 inches in diameter and weigh between 3 to 9 lbs each. The housings that support the bezels are ~15 inches by 17 inches. The total dimensions for each lens mount assembly are 17 inches by 28 inches and weigh ~72 lbs. The bezels are all made from 7050-T7451 aluminum and incorporate an integral flexure design that requires electron discharge machining (EDM) capability. The support housings are made from 6061-T6 aluminum. Several other materials such as titanium, Kovar, Invar and steel are used for the bezel nubs. There are several precision machined surfaces as well as mechanical alignment tolerances that are held to .001 inches.

Proposals are to be prepared in accordance with the attached Instructions.

A firm-fixed price contract for this procurement is contemplated. Offers will be evaluated on
(1) Evidence of technical expertise and infrastructure to fabricate and test large optical mounts of this type at a level deemed sufficient by SAO; (2) Offeror's prior experience and past performance with items of comparable complexity, size, tolerances and materials; (3) total price to the Government; and (4) ability to meet or better the required delivery schedule.

The firm date for receipt of proposals is 22 March 2011 at 5:15 PM (EDT). The anticipated award date is on or about 8 April 2011. The required delivery dates are SN1 delivered in six (6) months after receipt of order and SN2 delivered in nine (9) months ARO. Delivery is F.O.B. Destination, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

This is a Small Business Set Aside. The North American Industry Classification (NAICS) code and size standard are 332710 and 500 employees, respectively. All qualified, responsible small business sources may submit an offer, which will be considered by the SAO. This procurement is being conducted using the methods described in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 12.6, Streamlined Procedures for Evaluation and Solicitation for Commercial Items.

Any questions or comments regarding this solicitation shall cite the solicitation number (RFP621-03-11) and be directed to the following SAO representative:

Mr. Joseph Lendall, Contracting Officer
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
60 Garden Street, M/S 22
Cambridge, MA 02138-1516

Telephone No.:(617) 495-7401 (Collect calls not accepted)
Fax No.: (617) 496-7957
E-mail: [email protected]

Any explanation desired by an Offeror regarding the meaning or interpretation of the solicitation, specifications, drawings, etc. must be requested in writing and with sufficient time allowed for a reply to reach all Offerors before they submit their offers. Oral explanations or instructions given before the award of a contract will not be binding. Any information given to a prospective Offeror concerning a solicitation will be furnished to all prospective Offerors as an amendment of the solicitation, if such information is necessary to Offerors in submitting offers or if lack of such information would be prejudicial to uninformed Offerors. Questions SAO may have otherwise answered may not be answered if submitted too late to permit transmittal to all potential Offerors reasonably in advance of the due date.

Attachments:
Instructions to Offerors
Drawings
Model Contract

Bid Protests Not Available