Sole Source Request to Purchase WRK String Spectrometer Instrument and WRK Flight-line Sample Collector System

The Mississippi State University is proposing a sole source purchase of a WRK String Spectrometer Instrument and WRK Flight-line Sample Collector System. The equipment is needed for research data collection for aerial application of agricultural products by Unmanned/Uncrewed Aerial Application Systems (UAAS). The university has determined that this equipment is the only one that can meet their specific needs, as it provides comprehensive data collection and analysis capabilities. The estimated cost of the equipment is $25,695 + shipping/delivery. • The equipment is purpose-built for string data collection and analysis, which is essential for effective swath width measurement. • The university has already purchased a comparable equipment item, the SwathGobbler, but it is not able to collect and analyze effective swath width data. • The purchase of the WRK equipment provides long-term value and is considered reasonable compared to other portable spectrometer instruments. • The university has scoured other available spectrometer equipment options and has not found any other string spectrometer equipment that can meet their needs.