NASA Lewis Research Center, 21000 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44135

A -- SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SUBSYSTEM POC Michael Kinkelaar, Contracting Officer, (216) 433-2736, MS 500-306 Bob Romanofsky, Project Manager, (216) 433-3507, MS 54-5. The NASA Lewis Research Center seeks sources to develop a space communications subsystem consisting of a K/Ka-band transmit phased array antenna, an array controller, and an efficient high data rate encoder/modulator. This subsystem is intended for commercial and/or NASA applications for which direct data distribution from low Earth orbiting (LEO) communications or remote sensing spacecraft to tracking Earth terminals is required. The direct data distribution (D3) concept is being developed to facilitate the return of large volumes of raw information generated by these spacecraft. It is expected that a downlink data rate of 622 Mbps will be required during short intervals on every orbit. A downlink center frequency of interest is 26.25 GHz, although other center frequencies as low as 20 GHz may also be of interest. Benefits of the LEO D3 approach include: about 30 dB less space loss compared to LEO-GEO-Earth return links, greater capacity and smaller components due to Ka-band frequencies, a vibration free platform and improved reliability due to electronic beam-steering, spectral and power efficiency from combined modulation and coding, compatibility with the terrestrial network and fiber-like quality, and improved cost and availability owing to kinship with the expanding commercial communications satellite infrastructure. The anticipated outcome of the planned procurement is a single contract to produce a space qualifiable subsystem suitable for a NASA class D space experiment. Any interested source is encouraged to submit a Statement-of-Interest document containing a brief narrative description of their qualifications and relevant experience, as well as evidence of possible commercial interests in this technology. If sufficient interest is expressed by potential sources, NASA Lewis may host a bidder's conference following receipt of the Statement-of-Interest documents. Teaming may be necessary to fulfill all subsystem performance requirements. Any interested source shall identify themselves as a small business or 8(a) firm or large business. Responses should be received by September 4, 1995 at M.S. 500-306, NASA Lewis Research Center, 21000 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44135. (0213)

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