The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) intends to award on a sole source basis, a purchase order to Ohara Corporation of Branchburg, NJ for the following items: Three (3) each P/N: BAL15Y glass lens blank, code: 557587; diameter: 126.50; thickness: 29.50; Two (2) each P/N: S-FSL5Y glass lens blank, code: 487703, diameter: 160.00; thickness: 26.50; Two (2) each P/N: BSM51Y glass lens blank, code 603606, diameter: 182.00; thickness: 25.50; Two (2) each P/N: S-FPL51Y, code: 497811, diameter: 202.00; thickness: 27.50; Two (2) each P/N: S-LAL7, code: 652585, diameter: 182.00, thickness: 32.00 and Five (5) each Index Measurements 6th place (10 lines-t, s, r, C, d, e, F, g, h, i). The above consists of Striae grade A, per MIL-G-174B. Bubble Code = 1; Fine anneal, Maximum birefringence 10nm/cm with each item to come from a single melt; dimension tolerances = +/-0.2 mm. Standard nd/vd tolerances apply. The above parts are being supplied as High Homo Discs. The GSPLA5 homogeneity = +/-5x10^-6. Melt data (per the measurement in item 6), interferograms and certificates are included. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) requires the use of these specialized I-line glasses which are manufactured by a process that is proprietary to Ohara Corporation, for its TRES spectrograph optical design. Ohara is the only manufacturer in the world of glass with the required transmission, index of refraction and dispersion for the TRES spectrograph. A determination by SAO not to compete this proposed purchase order based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of SAO. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Delivery is 6 to 20 weeks ARO. This acquisition is being conducted under the guidelines as set forth in the Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP). No written solicitation will be issued for this requirement. Anticipated award date is April 22, 2005

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