NASA's Cosmic Origins Program Explores New Astrophysics Mission Concepts

What's Happening?

NASA's Cosmic Origins (COR) Program is actively seeking information to develop the next generation of ultraviolet (UV) and visible wavelength astrophysics missions. This initiative, part of the Cosmic Origins UV/Visible Astrophysics Mission Concepts Study, aims to establish a cohesive set of science goals that will guide future space missions. The program has solicited input from the scientific community through a Request for Information (RFI), which closed on August 10, 2012, receiving 34 responses. These responses are being analyzed to identify top-level science performance drivers, such as wavelength range and field of view, to inform the development of new mission concepts. A community workshop is scheduled at the Space Telescope Science Institute to further discuss these findings and refine the science drivers for upcoming missions.

Why It's Important?

The development of new UV and visible wavelength astrophysics missions is crucial for advancing our understanding of cosmic origins. These missions have the potential to uncover new insights into the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies, and other celestial phenomena. By establishing clear science goals and performance drivers, NASA aims to ensure that future missions are well-equipped to address key scientific questions. This initiative not only supports the scientific community's efforts to explore the universe but also strengthens NASA's role as a leader in space exploration and research. The outcomes of this study could lead to significant technological advancements and enhance our ability to observe and understand the cosmos.

What's Next?

Following the analysis of the RFI responses, NASA will host a workshop to discuss the findings and work towards a cohesive set of science drivers for future missions. This collaborative effort will involve scientists and experts from various fields, aiming to refine the objectives and requirements for the next generation of space missions. The insights gained from this process will guide the development of mission concepts and technologies, ultimately leading to the launch of new astrophysics missions that will expand our knowledge of the universe.