NASA is exploring new X-ray and far-infrared space missions

NASA has chosen two mission proposals to further investigate X-rays and far-infrared wavelengths, marking the beginning of a new class of astrophysics missions. These missions fall within NASA’s Explorers Program and have each been allocated $5 million for a 12-month concept study. A final decision will be made in 2026, after which the selected mission will be launched in 2032.

Both mission concepts are intended to explore unknown areas of the universe. Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, highlighted the potential of these missions to advance NASA’s science goals, saying they will enable breakthrough discoveries in line with the Decadal Survey’s top priorities.

Advanced X-ray imaging satellite

The Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite, led by principal investigator Christopher Reynolds of the University of Maryland, College Park, is designed to explore supermassive black holes and study stellar feedback, a process crucial to galaxy evolution. The mission builds on previous X-ray observatories and offers advanced imaging techniques with a wider field of view.

Probe far infrared mission for astrophysics

The second proposal is the Probe Far-Infrared Mission, led by Jason Glenn of NASA Goddard. This mission attempts to bridge the gap between current infrared observatories and radio telescopes. The 1.8-meter telescope does study far-infrared light to answer questions about the formation of planets, supermassive black holes and cosmic dust.

Both proposals were selected for their scientific potential and their alignment with NASA’s larger goals for future space exploration. The winning mission will be the first of NASA’s new Probe Explorers missions, which are intended to bridge the gap between flagship and smaller missions.