NASA Headquarters, Acquisition Division, Washington, DC 20546 Attn:CWA/Karen H. Stepka

R -- KECK OPERATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES SOL W-10-86297 POC Karen H. Stepka tel: 202/358-0395/Karen McDonald, Phone (202)358-0402 NASA Headquarters intends to issue RFP W-10-86297 on a sole-source basis to the W.M. Keck Observatory, Kamuela, HI/California Association for Research in Astronomy (CARA) to provide for three years of operational support for NASA scientists who are allocated observing time on the Keck Observatory twin 10-meter telescopes. NASA requires support services to ensure the efficient and cost effective use of the Keck Observatory instrumentation and telescopes for its programs. These support services include but are not limited to instrument specialists and telescope operators to operate facility instrumentation as well as the technical staff to support the use and maintenance of the complex Keck instrumentation and telescope interfaces, technical review of proposals to NASA for telescope time and administrative functions including telescope scheduling, documentation and logistical support of NASA's observing teams. It is currently anticipated that a firm fixed price contract will be awarded on or about 1 October 1996. The Keck Observatory/CARA is uniquely qualified to perform the required support based on their status as the owners/operator of the Observatory. Any other persons desiring consideration are requested to fully identify their interest and capabilities within fifteen (15) days of the publication of this synopsis to the NASA HQ Contracting Officer listed above. See Note 22. NASA Headquarters, Code CWA, 300 E St., Washington, DC 20546 (0179)

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