Loren Data's SAM Daily™

FBO DAILY ISSUE OF SEPTEMBER 03, 2011 FBO #3570
SPECIAL NOTICE

A -- Support for Cloud and Aersol Retrival in the GOES-R Mission

Notice Date

9/1/2011
 

Notice Type

Special Notice
 

NAICS

541690 — Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services
 

Contracting Office

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), NESDIS Acquisition Division, SSMC3 - Room 10100/OFA64, 1315 East West Highway, 10th Floor, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20910
 

ZIP Code

20910
 

Solicitation Number

EE133E-11-RQ-1445
 

Archive Date

9/30/2011
 

Point of Contact

KHAREE HAMILTON, Phone: 301-713-9232 X105, Joel L. Perlroth, Phone: (301) 713-9204
 

E-Mail Address

KHAREE.HAMILTON@NOAA.GOV, joel.l.perlroth@noaa.gov
(KHAREE.HAMILTON@NOAA.GOV, joel.l.perlroth@noaa.gov)
 

Small Business Set-Aside

N/A
 

Description

STATEMENT OF WORK Task Title: Support for Cloud and Aerosol Retrieval in the GOES-R Mission Quantifying the Effect of Aerosol Particle Size - A Study of Dust Aerosol Properties in Support of the GOES-R Project Introduction Among the key Environmental Data Records (EDRs) to be produced by the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) observations are aerosol properties. Airborne dust is an important species of atmospheric aerosols, whose impact on the terrestrial climate system may be potentially significant. For this reason, the optical and microphysical properties of dust aerosols have drawn a great deal of research attention. To retrieve dust aerosol properties from the ABI observations is a challenge. Because dust particles are nonspherical, appropriate algorithms must be based on the computation of the single-scattering optical properties of nonspherical dust particles. One of the algorithms developed for GOES-R by researchers at the Texas A&M University assumes dust particles to be axially symmetric spheroids. The aspect ratios of an ensemble of dust particles with a certain size distribution are key microphysical factors that will largely determines the bulk optical properties of dust and are important to reliable retrieval of dust properties from ABI observations. Furthermore, dust particles in heavily polluted regions may be attached with soot particles. These dust particles with soot attachments are called polluted dust particles. At present, there is very little knowledge of the optical properties of polluted dust particles. Tasks The GOES-R AWG has been developing algorithms for detecting dust and retrieving aerosol optical depth from ABI measurements. One of these algorithms is developed for GOES-R by researchers at the Texas A&M University. This Statement of Work is to continue to support the GOES-R aerosol retrieval effort. The specific tasks to be performed are: • Continue current effort to further improve the dust detection techniques. • Use the multiple angular observational capabilities of some existing satellite sensors (such as POLDER and MISR) to determine optimal effect aspect ratios of dust particles by using the tri-axial ellipsoid model for the particle overall shapes. • Use the CALIPSO backscatter and depolarization ratio under dusty conditions, which will provide information about the phase function (P11) and the phase matrix element ratio P22/P11 of dust particles, to further refine the determination of the optimal effect aspect ratios of dust particles. • Use the aforementioned optimal effect aspect ratios of dust particles to compute the optimal values of dust bulk optical properties at the ABI channels. • Calculate the optical properties of polluted dust particles. • Validate ABI aerosol product based on the simulation of radiances under dusty conditions (with the input data from the ABI proxy aerosol products) at the MODIS channels in comparison with MODIS measured radiances. The agreements/disagreements between the simulated and observed radiances will be a critical criterion for validating the ABI aerosol retrieval. • Develop methods and algorithms for routine and "deep-dive" (detailed, cause finding) validation tools for dust detection, and for AOD (for assessing retrieval sensitivities for microphysical assumptions). Deliverables: • Deliver an improved version of a dust detection algorithm. • Deliver the optimal effect aspect ratios of dust particles determined from the observations acquired by two passive remote sensors (POLDER and MISR) and an active sensor (CALIPSO). • Deliver the optimal values of dust bulk optical properties at the ABI channels based on the optimal effect aspect ratios of dust particles. • Deliver initial version of routine and deep-dive tools and documentation. • Submit the first year annual project report to document the major scientific findings and data sets from the first-year effort. Option Year: • Deliver the values of the bulk optical properties of polluted dust particles (with soot attachments) at the ABI channels. • Deliver a report regarding the validation of the proxy ABI aerosol products based on the simulation of radiances under dusty conditions (with the input data from the ABI proxy aerosol products) at the MODIS channels in comparison with MODIS measured radiances. • Deliver Versions 1, 2, and final routine and deep-dive tools and documentation. • Deliver a interim and final reports of this project. Suggested Staffing The level of effort required for the aerosol GOES-R AWG task is 1.0 FTE at ~70% level for 12 months, and 1.0 Senior Scientist/Professor at 1 month/year level. Particular skills needed include understanding transfer of radiation in an absorbing/scattering media bounded by an anisotropic surface, experience in light scattering calculations, especially those related to the calculation of optical properties of nonspherical particles, familiarity with current techniques for retrieving aerosol properties from satellite measurements, familiarity with the work and requirements of the Aerosol Group of AAA Team of the GOES-R Algorithm Working Group, and ability to use radiative transfer codes for simulating satellite radiances. Travel Under the aerosol GOES-R AWG Task, one three-to-five day trips is allowed for staff to travel to and attend the GOES-R Risk Reduction or Algorithm Working Group Annual Meetings, or another relevant scientific meeting (e.g., AGU). Sub-Task Title: Generation of Ice Cloud Scattering Tables for the GOES-R Daytime Cloud Optical and Microphysical Properties Algorithm. Introduction Among the key Environmental Data Records (EDRs) to be produced by the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) observations are cloud properties. Retrieval of ice cloud properties is challenging since ice crystal shapes are non-spherical and hard to predict. Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed the cloud optical property lookup tables for the GOES-R Daytime Cloud Optical and Microphysical Properties (DCOMP) Algorithm. Modeling the ice scattering properties of ice clouds is one of the largest uncertainties in the retrieval of cloud optical depth and particle size. The TAMU group led by Professor Ping Yang has developed innovative methods to compute the scattering properties for non-spherical ice particles of various habits or ice crystal shapes. The TAMU couples these scattering properties with a radiative transfer model to generate the lookup tables used in the GOES-R algorithm. Tasks The GOES-R AWG has been developing algorithms for retrieving cloud optical depth from ABI measurements. One component of these algorithms is developed for GOES-R by researchers at the Texas A&M University. This Statement of Work is to continue to support the GOES-R cloud property retrieval effort. The specific tasks to be performed are: • Develop methods and algorithms for routine and "deep-dive" (detailed, cause finding) validation tools for cloud optical depth and particle size estimation. • Compute the ice cloud lookup tables for the DCOMP algorithm in the official GOES-R format for the ABI sensor for its 0.65, 1.6, 2.2 and 3.9 m channels. • Compute the ice cloud lookup tables for the DCOMP algorithm for the AVHRR, MODIS, GOES and VIIRS sensors for their 0.65, 1.6, 2.1, 2.1 and 3.75 or 3.9 m channels. • Validate the DCOMP ice lookup tables compared to other tables (such as MODIS-MYD06) and detailed radiative transfer simulations. Deliverables: • Deliver initial version of routine and deep-dive tools and documentation. • Submit the first year annual project report to document the major scientific findings and data sets from the first-year effort. • Deliver the ice cloud lookup tables in the required format with code for validating their implementation. Option Year: • Deliver new lookup tables that reflect the evolving state-of-the-art in scattering theory applied to ice crystals in vis/nir/ir wavelengths. Suggested Staffing This is a level of effort required for the cloud GOES-R AWG task is 1.0 FTE at ~50% level for 12 months, and 1.0 Senior Scientist/Professor at 1 month/year level. Particular skills needed include understanding transfer of radiation in an absorbing/scattering media bounded by an anisotropic surface, experience in light scattering calculations, especially those related to the calculation of optical properties of nonspherical particles, familiarity with current techniques for retrieving cloud properties from satellite measurements, familiarity with the work and requirements of Cloud Application Team of the GOES-R Algorithm Working Group, and ability to use radiative transfer codes for simulating satellite radiances. Travel Under the aerosol GOES-R AWG Task, one three-to-five day trip is allowed for staff to travel to and attend the GOES-R Risk Reduction or Algorithm Working Group Annual Meetings, or another relevant scientific meeting (e.g., AGU). Period of Performance The initial period of performance will be for 12 months from the date of the award. IT Security The C&A requirements of clause 73 do not apply, and that a Security Accreditation Package is not required. CONTINUATION OF CD-492 JUSTIFICATION FOR OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION (APPLICABLE TO CONTRACTS +$100,000) I. Contracting Organization: NOAA / NESDIS Field Delegate, Silver Spring II. Description of Action : NOAA intends to acquire services on a sole source basis from Texas A&M Research Foundation to continue its support of the NOAA/NESDIS/STAR for Support for Cloud and Aerosol Retrieval in the GOES-R Mission. The Government anticipates the award of a Firm Fixed Price contract for a Base Year consisting of a twelve month. III. Description of Supplies or Services : The research group led by Professor Ping Yang has unique expertise in generating the scattering properties of non-spherical cloud particles (ice and dust). We are contracting with Prof. Ping Yang to deliver these calculations tailored for the application to current and future satellite sensors in support or the GOES-R program. This information provided by Prof. Ping Yang will be implemented into the cloud and dust algorithms used in the GOES-R program and directly impact the quality of the products. The estimated value of this acquisition is. IV. Authority : 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1), Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements V. Applicability of Authority : As stated above, the research company Texas A&M Research Company led by Professor Ping Yang has unique expertise in generating the scattering properties of non-spherical cloud particles (ice and dust). The generation of these properties is an enormous effort done by Texas A&M Research Company. The computational burden is immense and the numerical techniques used are complicated. The methods to compute these scattering properties vary with frequency. To generate the ice and dust scattering properties across the whole spectral range needed by GOES-R, Prof. Ping Yang developed innovative methods to combine the results from these different methods in a seamless manner. Therefore his numerical techniques, ability to make spectrally consistent results and access to super computers make Texas A&M Research Company Prof. Ping Yang’s work unique and the one of the only viable sources of this critical data. We know of no other group with similar capabilities. VI. Efforts to Obtain Competition : A notification, as required, will be posted in the FEDBIZOPS. VII. Determination of Fair and Reasonable Cost : Texas A&M Research Company has worked on many projects with NOAA in the past. The costs are determined to be fair and reasonable based on the level of effort that was obtained from the contract with the Texas A&M Research Company last year that was determined fair and reasonable at the time of award. The level of effort this year has been reduced and is comparable to the reduced funding. VIII. Market Research : Through surveying published literature, we have determined that Texas A&M Research Company using Prof. Yang’s techniques and ability make his work unique and the only viable source. IX. Other Facts : STAR has a history with the company. The STAR Program develops, test, demonstrate, validate, and provide algorithms for end-to-end GOES-R Ground Segment capabilities, provide sustained life cycle calibration/validation and product algorithm enhancements, and to ensure user readiness of GOES-R data and derived products. In 2009, they were awarded a two-year contract to provide scientific and technical services for special studies and analyses to support NOAA’s GOES-R Mission. X. Interested Sources : N/A XI. Steps to Foster Competition : No action is planned for future acquisition of these services due to possible funding cuts. XII. Contracting Officer’s Certification : The contracting officer’s signature on the CD-492 evidences that s/he has determined this document to be both accurate and complete to the best of his/her knowledge and belief. XIII. Technical/Requirements Personnel’s Certification : As evidenced by the applicable signatures on the CD-492, the technical and/or requirements personnel have certified that any supporting data contained herein which is their responsibility is both accurate and complete. THE FOLLOWING PROVISIONS AND CLAUSES APPLY TO THIS ACQUISITION 1352.216-77 CEILING PRICE; 1352.246-70 PLACE OF ACCEPTANCE; 52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER; 52.247-34 F.O.B. DESTINATION; 1352.215-70 PROPOSAL PREPARATION; 1352.270-70 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE; 1352.201-70 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S AUTHORITY; 1352.201-72 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE; 1352.237-74 PROGRESS REPORT; 1352.201-71 RATIFICATION RELEASE; 1352.208-70 RESTRICTIONS ON PRINTING AND DUPLICATING; 1352.209-71 LIMITATION OF FUTURE CONTRACTING; 1352.209-72 RESTRICTIONS AGAINST DISCLOSURE; 1352.209-73 COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAWS; 1352.209-74 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST; NONPERSONNEL SERVICES; 1352.228-70 INSURANCE COVERAGE; 1352.228-71 DEDUCTIBLES UNDER REQUIRED INSURANCE COVERAGE - COST REIMBURSEMENT; 1352.233-70 AGENCY PROTESTS; 1352.237-71 SECURITY PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS - LOW RISK CONTRACTS; 1352.237-72 SECURITY PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS - NATIONAL SECURITY CONTRACTS; 1352.237-75 KEY PERSONNEL; 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE; 52.202-1 DEFINITIONS; 52.203-3 GRATUITIES; 52.203-5 COVENANT AGAINST CONTINGENT FEES; 52.203-6 RESTRICTIONS ON SUBCONTRACTOR SALES TO THE GOVERNMENT; 52.203-7 ANTI-KICKBACK PROCEDURES; 52.203-8 CANCELLATION, RESCISSION, AND RECOVERY OF FUNDS FOR ILLEGAL OR IMPROPER ACTIVITY; 52.203-10 PRICE OR FEE ADJUSTMENT FOR ILLEGAL OR IMPROPER ACTIVITY; 52.203-12 LIMITATION ON PAYMENTS TO INFLUENCE CERTAIN FEDERAL TRANSACTIONS; 52.204-4 PRINTED OR COPIED DOUBLE-SIDED ON POSTCONSUMER FIBER CONTENT PAPER; 52.204-7 CENTRAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION; 52.204-9 PERSONAL IDENTITY VERIFICATION OF CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL; 52.215-8 ORDER OF PRECEDENCE--UNIFORM CONTRACT FORMAT; 52.215-15 PENSION ADJUSTMENTS AND ASSET REVERSIONS; 52.215-18 REVERSION OR ADJUSTMENT OF PLANS FOR POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS (PRB) OTHER THAN PENSIONS; 52.215-19 NOTIFICATION OF OWNERSHIP CHANGES; 52.219-14 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING; 52.222-26 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY; 52.222-35 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR VETERANS; 52.222-36 AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR WORKERS WITH DISABILITIES; 52.222-37 EMPLOYMENT REPORTS VETERANS; 52.222-50 COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS; 52.223-5 POLLUTION PREVENTION AND RIGHT-TO-KNOW INFORMATION; 52.223-6 DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE; 52.225-13 RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN FOREIGN PURCHASES; 52.227-1 AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT; 52.227-2 NOTICE AND ASSISTANCE REGARDING PATENT AND COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT; 52.227-11 PATENT RIGHTS--OWNERSHIP BY THE CONTRACTOR; 52.227-14 RIGHTS IN DATA--GENERAL; 52.228-5 INSURANCE--WORK ON A GOVERNMENT INSTALLATION; 52.229-3 FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL TAXES; 52.232-1 PAYMENTS; 52.232-8 DISCOUNTS FOR PROMPT PAYMENT; 52.232-11 EXTRAS; 52.232-17 INTEREST; 52.232-23 ASSIGNMENT OF CLAIMS; 52.232-25 PROMPT PAYMENT; 52.232-33 PAYMENT BY ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER--CENTRAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION; 52.233-1 DISPUTES; 52.233-3 PROTEST AFTER AWARD; 52.233-4 APPLICABLE LAW FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT CLAIM; 52.237-3 CONTINUITY OF SERVICES; 52.242-13 BANKRUPTCY; 52.243-1; 52.204-10 REPORTING EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND FIRST-TIER SUBCONTRACT AWARDS; 52.219-28 POST-AWARD SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATION; 52.204-8 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS; 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE; 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST;1352.233-70 AGENCY PROTESTS; 1352.215-75 EVALUATION CRITERIA ; 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE; (52.249-6 Alt-V)TERMINATION(COST-REIMBURSEMENT); 52.249-6 TERMINATION; FOR DEFAULT OR FOR CONVENIENCE OF GOVERNMENT CLAUSES;52.232-7 PAYMENTS UNDER TIME- AND -MATERIALS AND LABOR-HOUR CONTRACTS
 

Web Link

FBO.gov Permalink
(https://www.fbo.gov/spg/DOC/NOAA/NESMD/EE133E-11-RQ-1445/listing.html)
 

Place of Performance

Address: TEXAS A&M RESEARCH FOUNDATION, 400 HARVEY MITCHELL PKWY SOUTH, COLLEGE STATION, Texas, 778454321, United States

Zip Code: 54321
 

Record

SN02559548-W 20110903/110902102720-bd84f027d9bb268d833922f06fe53441 (fbodaily.com)
 

Source

FedBizOpps Link to This Notice
(may not be valid after Archive Date)

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