2013 CSA Exploration Core Science Definition Studies for Space Exploration

NATURE OF REQUIREMENTS

Requirement Development is part of the Exploration Core program of the Canadian Space Agency. Through Requirement Development, Exploration Core supports CSA’s exploration planning activities and defines the science and technology developments most likely to be required in future space exploration missions of interest to Canada, and assesses potential contributions that Canada could make to such missions. Concept Studies are part of the Requirement Development activity.

Science Definition studies allow for initial investigation of science needs in areas of CSA priority through the development of science approaches, models and tools. These tools developed under this initial phase are important for trade studies and analysis of de-scope options later in the mission development cycle, and typically have a long lead time for development.

This requirement requests Science Definition Studies proposals in the following areas of space exploration:

* Planetary science investigations associated with priority planetary target bodies for future CSA mission contributions. Priority planetary target bodies are Mars and the moon.

* Space life sciences investigations. The space life sciences program aims to indentify, characterize and mitigate risks associated with human exploration of space

Proposals are sought in four Science Definition Study (SDS) Categories, described in the Statement of Work. This includes both requests for Science Definition Studies (SDS) proposals for planetary science (SDS 1 and SDS 2) as well as in life sciences (SDS 3 and SDS 4). Multiple contracts may be awarded from this RFP.

The complete description of the work to be completed under this requirement is provided in Annex “A” of the attached Request for Proposal.

Interested suppliers are required to submit their proposals in accordance with the instructions provided in this RFP.

ENQUIRIES - BID SOLICITATION: All enquiries must be submitted in writing to the Contracting Authority no later than five (5) calendar days before the bid closing date. Enquiries received after that time may not be answered. Bidders should reference as accurately as possible the numbered item of the bid solicitation to which the enquiry relates. Care should be taken by bidders to explain each question in sufficient detail in order to enable Canada to provide an accurate answer. Technical enquiries that are of a proprietary nature must be clearly marked "proprietary" at each relevant item. Items identified as "proprietary" will be treated as such except where Canada determines that the enquiry is not of a proprietary nature. Canada may edit the questions or may request that the Bidder do so, so that the proprietary nature of the question is eliminated, and the enquiry can be answered with copies to all bidders. Enquiries not submitted in a form that can be distributed to all bidders may not be answered by Canada.

A French version of the RFP will be made available upon request and the closing date will be extended consequently by the amount of time it takes to provide a translated document. Bids can be submitted in either official language of Canada (English or French).

The Canadian Space Agency is not subject to the trade agreements.

Canada retains the right to negotiate with suppliers on any procurement.