Architectures and Technologies for a Space Telescope for Solar System Science

TL;DR

This paper advocates for a dedicated space telescope in Earth orbit for solar system science, emphasizing the need for high-resolution UV-Visible capabilities following Hubble's end, and proposes design options for future assessment.

Contribution

It introduces a mission concept study for a planetary space telescope, addressing a gap in NASA's current planning and providing potential design options for future evaluation.

Findings

Identifies the need for a dedicated planetary space telescope.

Proposes design options to inform future decadal surveys.

Highlights the importance of UV-Visible capabilities for planetary science.

Abstract

We advocate for a mission concept study for a space telescope dedicated to solar system science in Earth orbit. Such a study was recommended by the Committee on Astrobiology and Planetary Science (CAPS) report "Getting Ready for the Next Planetary Science Decadal Survey." The Mid-Decadal Review also recommended NASA to assess the role and value of space telescopes for planetary science. The need for high-resolution, UV-Visible capabilities is especially acute for planetary science with the impending end of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST); however, NASA has not funded a planetary telescope concept study, and the need to assess its value remains. Here, we present potential design options that should be explored to inform the decadal survey.