Participation in the Lighting Advisory Panel

Background
NASA/NSSC has a requirement for Participation in the Lighting Advisory Panel. The contract will be issued to THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN HUNTSVILLE, which has been determined to be the sole provider for this service. NASA/NSSC will be the procuring center for this effort, and the performance will take place at NASA/Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The goal of this contract is to ensure safety and launch availability by defining the Lightning Launch Commit Criteria (LLCC) and providing expertise on atmospheric electricity.

Work Details
The Lightning Advisory Panel (LAP) defines the LLCC and associated rationale to reduce risks to launch vehicles from triggered or natural lightning. As a member of the LAP, the contractor will support LAP activities including:

1. Attendance at one ~3-day meeting at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, scheduled for Summer 2025.

2. Participation in 12-22 teleconferences (approximately 1.75 hours each).

3. Involvement in at least one or two LAP sub-committees focused on action items such as LLCC development and data collection.

4. Preparation for meetings by reviewing worldwide lightning research relevant to updating the LLCC.

5. Active participation in discussions to modify existing LLCC and provide guidance based on research expertise.

6. Completion of action items post-meeting including LLCC review, editing, analyses, and documentation of formal recommendations for improving operational effectiveness and safety.

7. Travel expenses for attending the face-to-face meeting.

8. Functioning as LAP Chair with responsibilities including serving as primary contact to NASA and U.S. Space Force, managing meeting agendas, leading discussions, providing clarity on LAP opinions, and tracking action items.

Period of Performance
One year from the date of award.

Place of Performance
NASA/Kennedy Space Center, Florida.