Scientific Objectives for UV/Visible Astrophysics Investigations: A Summary of Responses by the Community (2012)

TL;DR

This paper analyzes community responses to NASA's 2012 RFI on UV/visible astrophysics science objectives, aiming to guide future mission development and technology planning.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of 34 submissions and discussions to inform future ultraviolet/visible space astrophysics missions.

Findings

Identified key science drivers for UV/visible astrophysics

Outlined measurement capabilities needed for future missions

Summarized community consensus and diverse proposals

Abstract

Following several recommendations presented by the Astrophysics Decadal Survey 2010 centered around the need to define "a future ultraviolet-optical space capability," on 2012 May 25, NASA issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking persuasive ultraviolet (UV) and visible wavelength astrophysics science investigations. The goal was to develop a cohesive and compelling set of science objectives that motivate and support the development of the next generation of ultraviolet/visible space astrophysics missions. Responses were due on 10 August 2012 when 34 submissions were received addressing a number of potential science drivers. A UV/visible Mission RFI Workshop was held on 2012 September 20 where each of these submissions was summarized and discussed in the context of each other. We present a scientific analysis of these submissions and presentations and the pursuant measurement capability needs, which could influence ultraviolet/visible technology development plans for the rest of this decade. We also describe the process and requirements leading to the inception of this community RFI, subsequent workshop and the expected evolution of these ideas and concepts for the remainder of this decade.