The Far-InfraRed Spectroscopic Explorer (FIRSPEX)

TL;DR

FIRSPEX is a proposed small satellite mission designed to perform high-resolution spectroscopic surveys of the entire sky in key far-infrared lines, aiming to map the interstellar medium and study galaxy components.

Contribution

It introduces a new small satellite mission concept with specific heterodyne detection bands for all-sky spectroscopic mapping in the far-infrared range.

Findings

Design of a 1m telescope satellite for THz spectroscopy

Targeted key molecular and atomic transitions in the far-infrared

Enables comprehensive 3D mapping of the Galaxy's ISM

Abstract

The Far-InfraRed Spectroscopic Explorer (FIRSPEX) is a candidate mission in response to a bi-lateral Small-mission call issued by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). FIRSPEX is a small satellite (~1m telescope) operating from Low Earth Orbit (LEO). It consists of a number of heterodyne detection bands targeting key molecular and atomic transitions in the terahertz (THz) and Supra-Terahertz (>1 THz) frequency range. The FIRSPEX bands are: [CII] 158 microns (1.9 THz), [NII] 205 microns (1.46 THz), [CI] 370 microns (0.89 THz), CO(6-5) 433 microns (0.69 THz). The primary goal of FIRSPEX is to perform an unbiased all sky spectroscopic survey in four far-infrared lines delivering the first 3D-maps (high spectral resolution) of the Galaxy. The spectroscopic surveys will build on the heritage of Herschel and complement the broad-band all-sky surveys carried out by the IRAS and AKARI observatories. In addition FIRSPEX will enable targeted observations of nearby and distant galaxies allowing for an in-depth study of the ISM components.