Request for Proposals for a Heat Pipe Solutions Widefield Context Camera—Thermal Management System

The University of Arizona seeks a vendor to design, fabricate, test, and deliver a passive thermal‑management system (heat‑pipe based) for the Widefield Context Camera used by Steward Observatory. The effort includes providing 3 flight‑qualified heat‑pipe units, 2 test units, associated spreader and interface plates, and complete engineering documentation (CAD models, analysis, test reports, QA records). Evaluation will be based on experience (25 %), technical approach (35 %), price (30 %) and support (10 %). The contract may be executed via a fixed‑term agreement or individual purchase orders, with proposals remaining valid for up to 180 days after submission. • Deliverables: heat‑pipe assembly, heat spreader plate, thermal interface plate, analysis & test reports, CAD models, QA documentation. • Technical requirements: Al6061‑T6 construction, ammonia working fluid, 200 W total thermal load, operating temperature –22.5 °C ± 2.5 °C, 5‑year lifetime, strict temperature uniformity and stability specs. • Submission must be completed by August 7, 2026 2:30 PM MST via the University’s GEP/Quantum portal, with all required certifications signed.