A study involving University of Sussex scientists is being considered by the American space agency for a space mission which hopes to explain the origins and growth of planets, supermassive black holes, stars and cosmic dust.
NASA selected two proposals out of a possible eight to conduct a 12-month mission concept study before one will be chosen by NASA to become a $ 1 billion space probe mission, launching in 2032.
Each of the proposals will receive $ 5 million to conduct the research.
The Probe far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics (PRIMA) is a proposal for an observatory that will feature a 1.8-metre telescope capable of studying far-infrared (FIR) wavelengths to ‘unveil our cosmic origins’.
Scientists believe it could answer questions about astronomical processes that are happening at lower temperatures and hence study the origins and growth of planets, supermassive black holes, stars and cosmic dust.
PRIMA is engaging with a UK consortium including researchers from the University of Sussex, Cardiff University, Imperial College, RAL-Space, Imperial College, University of Oxford, University of Leicester and University College London.
Professor Seb Oliver, deputy pro vice chancellor of research and professor of astrophysics at the University of Sussex led the UK engagement, funded by the UK Space Agency, with three concepts that were being proposed. He is now leading the UK consortium, and spearheading work at Sussex which could be vital to the project’s progression.
He said: “We are delighted that the PRIMA concept has been selected for further study by NASA.
“The UK has an amazing track record in developing new space technology and providing advanced data analysis for astrophysics missions. A UK involvement in a mission like PRIMA will ensure UK astronomers can maintain their pre-eminent role at the forefront of astrophysics.
“A FIR mission would be the first in operation after two decades – the last FIR mission was from 2009-2013. It will allow astronomers to see processes in galaxies, stars and planetary systems that would otherwise be hidden to conventional optical telescopes. We now face a busy but exciting year as we try to help the PRIMA team succeed at the final selection.”
Sussex has two specific roles: evaluating the benefits that this mission can have for the UK; and working out how to deal with blurry images.
The mission that is successfully selected by NASA will be announced in 2026.
Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA headquarters in Washington, said: “NASA’s Explorers Program brings out some of the most creative ideas for missions that help us reveal the unknown about our universe.
“Both of the selected concepts could enable ground-breaking science responsive to the top astrophysics priorities of the decade, develop key technologies for future flagship missions, and offer opportunities for the entire community to use the new observatory, for the benefit of all.”
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