NASA contract RFP to modify Mobile Launcher for new SLS rocket

NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Fla., plans to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) next month for the modification of the existing Ares-I Mobile Launcher for the new Space Launch System (SLS), according to contract documents released on Monday through the Federal Business Opportunities website.

“This project includes removal and storage of existing system components, equipment, and materials for reuse/reinstallation; demolition of system components and structure not to be reused; modification of structural elements and installation of new structural elements; reinstallation of salvaged equipment and materials, and installation of new systems, equipment, and materials,” NASA said in the documents. “Heavy structural demolition and construction will be performed on approximately half of the existing Mobile Launcher base.”

Modifications to the Mobile Launcher Tower electrical equipment rooms include removal and modification of air conditioning ductwork, and electrical and communication cable trays, and relocation of lighting fixtures. Accurate weights of all items and material removed from the Mobile Launcher and all items and material installed on or in the Mobile Launcher shall be determined, documented, and provided for record. The Mobile Launcher modification drawings and specification package are classified as Sensitive But Unclassified information and are subject to the U.S. Export Control Laws, the space agency warned.

“The order of magnitude for this procurement is more than $10 million and the effort shall be completed within 605 calendar days after notice to proceed,” NASA said.

The anticipated release of the Mobile Launcher modification RFP is on or about Feb. 1. The RFP will require proposal submission in two parts. The first part is submission of the past performance volume, with an anticipated closing date of March 1, and the second part is submission of the price volume, with an anticipated closing date of April 30. An organized site visit is planned in February.

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