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

The University of Arizona seeks a qualified vendor to design, fabricate, test, and deliver a passive thermal‑management system (heat‑pipe based) for the Widefield Context Camera (WCC) used in astronomical adaptive‑optics research. The effort includes providing detailed engineering analysis, qualification testing, CAD models, quality‑assurance documentation, and delivering three flight‑grade heat‑pipe units plus two qualification units. The contract will be awarded based on a “most advantageous” evaluation that heavily weights technical approach, experience, price, and support. • Core hardware: heat spreader plate, three heat‑pipe assemblies, and a thermal interface plate (Al6061‑T6, ammonia fluid). • Deliverables: analysis reports, qualification test plans/results, CAD models, QA documentation, and all hardware (3 flight units, 2 test units). • Required certifications: AS9100/ISO‑9001, export‑control compliance, Section 508 VPAT, and signed proposal certifications. • Proposal deadline: August 5, 2026 2:30 PM MST via the GEP/Quantum portal.