Develop/modify NASA Lightning Launch Commit Criteria & associated rationale

Background
NASA/NSSC has a requirement for the development and modification of NASA Lightning Launch Commit Criteria (LLCC) and associated rationale. The contract is intended to be awarded as a sole source to Amitabh Nag, who has been identified as the sole provider for this service. The goal of this contract is to ensure reduced risk to launch vehicles from triggered or natural lightning during launches supported by NASA, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Work Details
The Lightning Advisory Panel (LAP) will define and recommend the LLCC and associated rationale. The individual contracted will support LAP activities, which include: attending one ~3-day meeting at Kennedy Space Center, participating in 12-22 teleconferences, and engaging in LAP sub-committees focused on LLCC development and modification.

Tasks include preparing reports on action items, reviewing worldwide lightning research, participating in discussions to modify existing LLCC, providing expert guidance, completing action items post-meetings, and documenting formal recommendations for improving operational effectiveness and safety. Deliverables include a description of contributions towards LLCC development, documentation of analyses, and an updated curriculum vitae six months after the award.

Period of Performance
One year from the date of award.

Place of Performance
NASA/Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be world-recognized experts in atmospheric electricity or related fields with an earned PhD from an accredited institution in a relevant STEM discipline. They should have a record of impactful peer-reviewed research in leading journals. While not strictly required, qualifications may be enhanced by public recognition for scientific achievements or experience as a journal peer reviewer.

Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail)
This opportunity appears to have a confirmed incumbent based on prior contract 80NSSC25PB922 awarded to Amitabh Nag (value $25,067; 09/23/25–09/22/26) for work “PERFORM ON LIGHTNING ADVISORY PANEL.” The current requirement to develop/modify NASA Lightning Launch Commit Criteria and associated rationale aligns with the prior Lightning Advisory Panel support described in the existing summary, including participation in meetings/teleconferences and contributing analyses and documentation to LLCC recommendations, suggesting the effort is a continuation or update of the same criteria development process.