Atomic data for astrophysics: Needs and challenges, by Gillian Nave, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD We describe the impact of atomic spectroscopy on astrophysics and future requirements for atomic data. These requirements cannot be met with current levels of funding for laboratory astrophysics. The situation could be substantially improved with relatively small investment from the funding agencies.
The Swarm Development Concept for the LWA, by Greg Taylor, University of New Mexico This white paper describes a plan to construct the LWA Swarm telescope - a powerful instrument for investigating the Universe while engaging students at Universities and Colleges across the US. This activity builds on the success of the Long Wavelength Array project, and takes advantage of recent developments in hardware and software.
'Mind the gap': a call to redesign astronomy graduate education, by Amaya Moro-Martin, Space Telescope Science Institute The National Academies report 'Graduate STEM Education for the 21st Century' identifies a gap between what the students and society need and what graduate STEM education offers. Astro2020 represents an opportunity to issue recommendations on the redesign of astronomy graduate education following the new guidelines set by the National Academies.
The US Extremely Large Telescope Program, by Sidney Wolff, AURA This white paper is a description of the US-ELT Program, which is a partnership of the Thirty-Meter Telescope International Organization, the Giant Magellan Telescope Corporation, and AURA/NOAO. The description covers some key science programs, telescope and instrument specifications, cost and schedule, and operations planning.
Astronomy-driven Careers in the 2020's, by Julia Kamenetzky, Westminster College, Salt Lake City, UT We consider the employment prospects of those with advanced degrees in astronomy and astrophysics within and outside academia over the coming decade, and offer recommendations aimed at ensuring there continues to exist a robust, diverse set of career options for those with graduate training in astronomy and astrophysics in the 2020s.
CMB-HD: An Ultra-Deep, High-Resolution Millimeter-Wave Survey Over Half the Sky, by Neelima Sehgal, Stony Brook University & Flatiron Institute An ultra-deep, high-resolution millimeter-wave survey over half the sky would answer many outstanding questions in both fundamental physics of the Universe and astrophysics. CMB-HD will deliver this survey in 5 years of observing, using two new 30-meter-class off-axis cross-Dragone telescopes to be located at Cerro Toco in the Atacama Desert.
State of the Profession Considerations for Laboratory Astrophysics, by Daniel Wolf Savin, Daniel Wolf Savin Astrophysics advances, in part, through laboratory astrophysics studies of the underlying processes controlling the observed properties of the Cosmos. These studies encompass both theoretical and experimental research. Robust support for laboratory astrophysics is critically needed to maximize the scientific return of astronomical observations.
Problems in Neutrinos and Intergalactic Communication, by Paul Shapshak, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine We briefly review a few problems in neutrino research and the possible use of neutrinos for interstellar and intergalactic communications. The issue is the search for extraterrestrial intelligence by neutrino communication reception.
MFB: Mid-Frequency-Band Space Gravitational Wave Observer for the 2020 Decade, by Peter Michelson, Stanford University A Mid-Frequency-Band (MFB) gravitational wave observatory in geosynchronous orbit (73,000 km ), optimized for the frequency 10 mHz to 1 Hz. MFB that bridges the science between the ground observatories LIGO /VIRGO (4/3 km - and planned ones 10/40 km ) and the milli-hertz band of LISA (2.5 Gm)- with usable sensitivity extending to 10 Hz.
ASTRO2020: Training the Future Generation of Computational Researchers, by Gurtina Besla, U. Arizona The current disparity in computational knowledge is a critical hindrance to the diversity and success of the field. Recommendations are outlined for policies and funding models to enable the growth and retention of a new generation of computational researchers that reflect the demographics of the undergraduate population in Astronomy and Physics.
Ultra-stable Technology for High Contrast Observatories, by Lee Feinberg, Goddard Space Flight Center In this whitepaper we address the feasibility and confidence of achieving picometer stability requirements for next generation ultrastable high contrast observatories and we assess important next steps and priorities in the technology development to enable these observatories.
Enabling Richer Data Sets for Future Astrophysics Missions, by Brian GIovannoni, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology Future Astrophysics missions should envision richer data sets. NASA has enabled an infrastructure that permits future Astrophysics missions to deliver more complex data sets. This infrastructure has been implemented without requiring funding from NASA/Astrophysics, and future Astrophysics missions would benefit from its use.
Tying Research Funding to Progress on Inclusion, by Dara Norman, NOAO In this position paper, we recommend that agencies require a review of diversity and inclusion metrics for missions and projects as another axis of excellence on which these programs should be evaluated. Diversity and inclusion metrics should be monitored in readiness, and other, reviews alongside project management and budget planning.
ENHANCING WFIRST SCIENCE WITH THE ADDITION OF A REDDER FILTER, by George Helou, Caltech We outline a number of science advantages for adding a Ks filter (λc ~ 2.15 μm), and propose to extend the wavelength coverage for WFIRST into the K-band, where the gains of going to space are much more pronounced than at shorter wavelengths.
Why Physicists Should Discuss Mental Health, by Kathryn Chandra, University of California, San Diego Astrophysicists are held to a standard that they could only pursue this major if they meet a socially set standard of intelligence. When one is struggling or cannot meet these socially set expectations, it leads to an erosion of initiative, confidence, and aspiration. I indent to normalize discourse about mental health in the Astronomy community
The Emergence of Long-Lived, High-Value Data Collections, by Alexander Szalay, Johns Hopkins University Large-scale astronomy projects created unique high-value data sets at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars. While the projects are active, they are mandated to create complex archives, used by a large community. However, there are no significant efforts about maintaining these data beyond the point when their instruments reach the sunset.
MKIDs in the 2020s, by Benjamin Mazin, University of California Santa Barbara Optical and near-IR Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors, or MKIDs, are superconducting photon counting detectors capable of measuring the energy and arrival time of individual OIR photons without read noise or dark current. In this whitepaper we will discuss the current status of MKIDs and MKID-based instruments.
The Growing Importance of a Tech Savvy Astronomy and Astrophysics Workforce, by Dara Norman, NOAO In this white paper, we focus on recommendations to funding agencies that support leadership in the promotion of activities to build an astronomy and astrophysical workforce capable of taking advantage of the computational resources and the large volumes of data coming in the next decade.
All-Sky Near Infrared Space Astrometry, by David Hobbs, Lund Observatory Possible solutions to the challenge of implementing a TDI-like technology in large format NIR detectors are examined.
Collaboration with Integrity: Indigenous Knowledge in 21st Century Astronomy, by Aparna Venkatesan, University of San Francisco Astronomy has a unique connection to indigenous knowledge (IK) and the long history of indigenous scientific contributions. We share six key recommendations for funding agencies in order for non-indigenous institutions to fully partner with indigenous communities and IK to build towards a more inclusive and sustainable scientific enterprise.
Preservation of Our Astronomical Heritage State of the Profession White Paper for Astro2020, by James Lattis, University of Wisconsin-Madison We argue that it is essential that the Astro2020 survey of the present state of American astronomy and the recommendations for the next decade address the issue of ensuring preservation of, and making more discoverable and accessible, the field's rich legacy materials.
Enhancing Conference Participation to Bridge the Diversity Gap, by Laura Prichard, Space Telescope Science Institute We present the results of a survey sent to 164 research staff at STScI to determine what reasons motivate their attendance at conferences and what aspects prevent researchers from attending them. If adopted, the proposed recommendations will increase diversity in astronomy through the broadening of conference participation.
Cosmic Dawn Intensity Mapper, by Asantha Cooray, University of California, Irvine The Cosmic Dawn Intensity Mapper (CDIM) is a Probe class space mission study that was supported by NASA in preparation for the 2020 Decadal. CDIM will transform our understanding of the era of reionization when the Universe formed first stars and galaxies, and UV photons ionized the neutral intergalactic medium.
Providing a Timely Review of Input Demographics to Advisory Committees, by Dara Norman, NOAO We recommend that advisory committees that collect community input, (e.g., the Decadal Survey review committee), also collect, compile and review input demographic data about contributors before finalizing reports, (e.g., the final 2020 Decadal Survey Report) and that a summary of these data be released alongside the final survey report.
Increasing Gender Diversity and Inclusion in Scientific Committees and Related Activities at STScI, by Gisella De Rosa, Space Telescope Science Institute We present a new initiative by the Women in Astronomy Forum at STScI to increase gender diversity and inclusion in the scientific committees and the activities they generate. The initiative offers new and uniform guidelines on binary gender representation goals, recommendations on how to achieve them, and metrics and tools to track the progress.
A Science-Driven Vision for ALMA in the 2030s, by Crystal Brogan, National Radio Astronomy Observatory We describe the ALMA Development Program and the 2030 ``Development Roadmap'', including new ambitious community-driven science goals for the next decade, as well as the near-term to longer-term upgrades that will be needed to achieve them. With this submission we seek support for continued investment in ALMA's future.
Key Challenges for AAS Journals in the Next Decade, by Emily Levesque, University of Washington The AAS Journals are a vital asset to astronomy, but the page charge model for funding their publication could prove challenging in the open access (OA) era. Discussing alternative models for funding publishing costs must be part of Astro2020. We recommend that the NAS form a task force to address the concerns highlighted in this white paper.
History of Astronomy State of the Profession, by Alan Hirshfeld, UMass Dartmouth This State of the Profession White Paper from the American Astronomical Society's Historical Astronomy Division (HAD) details HAD's efforts to advance academic research in topics relating to the historical nature of astronomy, including the application of historical records to modern astrophysical problems, now and over the next decade.
Physical Analytics Integrated Repository and Services for Astronomy: PAIRS-A, by Bruce Elmegreen, IBM T.J. Watson Research Center A highly scalable data and analytics platform for science-ready astronomical data is proposed, based on an existing system at IBM. Such a platform allows rapid inter-comparisons between diverse, high-volume datasets for discovery, machine learning and display without requiring significant data motion.
Lynx X-ray Observatory, by Alexey Vikhlinin, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian Lynx is a revolutionary X-ray observatory with the power to transform our understanding of the cosmos with unprecedented X-ray vision into the otherwise invisible Universe. It will see the dawn of black holes, reveal what drives galaxy formation, and unveil the energetic side of stellar evolution and stellar ecosystems.
Subaru and WFIRST: A Partnership for the 2020s, by Jason Rhodes, NASA JPL Joint WFIRST/Subaru observations have the potential to enable transformative science that cannot be done by either telescope alone. WFIRST will image the near-infrared sky to unprecedented depth and area. Subaru, with its wide field and unique instruments for both imaging and spectroscopy, is a superb complement.
The Status and Future of the Very Long Baseline Array, by Walter Brisken, National Radio Astronomy Observatory This paper describes the current status of the VLBA as a world leading radio astronomy instrument and discusses the next decade of improvements and scientific discovery space. Development synergies with the ngVLA are discussed.
Cosmic Explorer: The U.S. Contribution to Gravitational-Wave Astronomy beyond LIGO, by David Reitze, California Institute of Technology This white paper describes the research and development needed over the next decade to realize 'Cosmic Explorer,' the U.S. node of a future third-generation detector network that will be capable of observing and characterizing compact gravitational-wave sources to cosmological redshifts.
Supporting Archival Research with Euclid and SPHEREx Data, by Harry Teplitz, Caltech/IPAC Robust funding for archival research through the NASA Astrophysics Data Analysis Program (ADAP) has been a successful and vital investment for NASA. In the mid-2020s, the largest projects for ADAP will be new missions, Euclid and SPHEREx. We provide an overview of potential archival research, and we estimate the needed increase in funding.
Space Laboratory Experiments For Probing Dark Energy and Fundamental Physics, by Nan Yu, Jet Propulsion Laboratory Precision measurements in space can help our understanding of physics in areas such as the nature of gravity, dark matter, dark energy, and fundamental physics in general. The white paper discusses emerging roles of space laboratory missions for discovery and a mission concept of gravity observation and detection of dark energy in the Solar System.
It's Time to Eliminate the GRE and PGRE in All Astronomy & Astrophysics PhD Programs: Motivation, Implementation and Outcomes, by Adam Burgasser, UC San Diego The GRE and Physics GRE are standard admission diagnostics for Physics and Astronomy graduate programs, despite research showing no correlations with key graduate outcomes but reinforced inequalities for underrepresented groups. We call on all Astronomy and Physics programs to eliminate or make optional the GRE and PGRE in graduate admissions
Searches for Technosignatures: The State of the Profession, by Jason Wright, Penn State The small size of the SETI workforce is a major problem for NASA and the search for life elsewhere in the universe. The Astro2020 Decadal should address this issue by making nurturing the field an explicit priority for the next decade.
Linking the Solar System and Extrasolar Planetary Systems with Radar Astronomy: Infrastructure for "Ground Truth" Comparison, by Joseph Lazio, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology Planetary radars obtain unique measurements about solar system bodies, including of Venus, Earth's "twin," and small bodies, the constituents of the Sun's debris disk. The world's planetary radar infrastructure leverages astronomical and telecommunications antennas---Arecibo and the Goldstone Radar, with the Green Bank Telescope as a receiver.
(Un)conscious Bias in the Astronomical Profession: Universal Recommendations to improve Fairness, Inclusiveness, and Representation, by Alessandra Aloisi, Space Telescope Science Institute (Un)conscious bias affects every aspect of the astronomical profession and is the main hurdle to achieving excellence. STScI has constructed tools to raise awareness and designed guidelines and goals to increase diversity. We generalize to universal recommendations that will increase diversity, inclusiveness and fairness in Astronomy as a whole.
ASTROCHPS, by Adam Schilffarth, Xplore, Inc. In this paper we discuss CHPS (Commercial Hosted Payload Services) a novel, capacity- building mission class capable of achieving more science, more often, and with smaller budget allocations.
Physical barriers to Imaging & Spectroscopy of Terrestrial Exoplanets, by James Breckinridge, Caltech This white paper reviews the physical and cost barriers to imaging and spectroscopy of terrestrial exoplanets using space and ground telescope Lyot coronagraphs. Physical optics aspects of diffraction, scattered light, image formation, and polarization that STDT's have ignored to obtain optimistic estimates of contrast. are discussed.
Investing for Discovery in Astronomy, by Joan Najita, National Optical Astronomy Observatory Our history of astronomical discoveries and literature citation patterns argue that progress in astronomy hinges on support for a diversity of research efforts in terms of team size, facility size, and investment strategies that encourage risk taking.
SpecTel: A 10-12 meter class Spectroscopic Survey Telescope, by Richard Ellis, University College London Here we recommend a conceptual design study for a spectroscopic survey facility in the southern hemisphere. As a baseline, we describe science cases and capabilities of an 11.4-meter aperture telescope with a 5 sqdeg field of view. 15,000 robotically-controlled fibers feed spectrographs that cover the wavelength range 360 to 1330 nm.
Reaching for the next decade with a deep valley detector for high energy tau neutrinos, by Andres Romero-Wolf, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology We present a ground-based neutrino observatory concept that uses the topography of deep valleys to detect tau neutrinos. The objectives are to detect the tau component of the neutrino flux at energies overlapping with IceCube (1-10 PeV) and to extend to energies where the cosmogenic flux due to cosmic ray propagation may dominate (10-100 PeV).
Orbiting Starshade: Observing Exoplanets at visible wavelengths with GMT, TMT, and ELT, by John Mather, NASA GSFC An orbiting starshade working with 30-m class ground-based telescopes would enable observations of molecular oxygen and water on an exo-Earth. The starshade provides the needed contrast and the telescope with advanced adaptive optics provides angular resolution, reduction of the sky background, imaging, and spectroscopy.
Embedding Climate Change Engagement in Astronomy Education and Research, by Kathryn Williamson, West Virginia University This White Paper is a call to action for astronomers to respond to climate change with a large-scale structural transition within our profession via two primary drivers: (1) Education and Outreach, and (2) Research Practices and Infrastructure. We outline a plan for collective impact using a Networked Improvement Community (NIC) approach.
When is it Worth Assembling Observatories in Space?, by Rudranarayan Mukherjee, Jet Propulsion Laboratory To investigate the viability and benefits of in-Space Assembly, Dr. Paul Hertz, Director of NASA's Astrophysics Division, chartered a study, asking 'When is it worth assembling space telescopes in space rather than building them on the Earth and deploying them autonomously from a single launch vehicle?' This whitepaper summarizes the response.
CubeSat Astronomical Telescops and Research in the 2020s, by Russell Genet, California Polytechnic State University CubeSat astronomical telescopes could become a major contributor to research. Four programs could enhance this evolutionary process: (1) an autonomous telescope research constellation, (2) advancing telescope technology, (3) encouraging CubeSat telescope commercial ventures, and (4) developing a supportive community of practice.
The Cherenkov Telescope Array, by David Williams, University of California Santa Cruz The Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) is an international project to build a next-generation instrument for very-high-energy (20 GeV - 300 TeV) gamma-ray observations exceeding the sensitivity of existing instruments by an order of magnitude. This white paper summarizes the CTA project and the science capabilities of CTA.
Elevating the Role of Software as a Product of the Research Enterprise, by Arfon Smith, Space Telescope Science Institute Software is a critical part of modern research, and those responsible for its development must be retained in the workforce to maximize the scientific return from petabyte-scale datasets. This white paper will present current challenges and suggest practical solutions for elevating the role of software as a product of the research enterprise.
Packed Ultra-wideband Mapping Array (PUMA): A Radio Telescope for Cosmology and Transients, by Anze Slosar, Brookhaven National Laboratory PUMA is a proposed ultra-wideband low-resolution interferometric transit radio telescope operating at 200-1100 MHz composed of thousands of 6m dishes. It is optimized for intensity mapping of the redshifted 21cm line over z=0.3-6 to study dark energy and inflation. The same design also allows an unprecedented study of fast radio bursts and pulsars.
Scientific Advancement through Flagship Space Missions, by Nancy A. Levenson, Space Telescope Science Institute Flagship space missions provide unique value to advance the boundaries of science for multiple decades and to ensure US leadership in space and science. They are essential infrastructure for the astronomy profession as part of an effective and balanced portfolio.
Astronomy should be in the clouds, by Arfon Smith, Space Telescope Science Institute Commodity cloud computing makes it possible for science projects to easily procure highly-reliable data management infrastructure on demand. In this paper we argue that astronomy should outsource our data management needs to the commercial cloud thereby allowing us to focus on our core competencies of data calibration and science exploitation.
Frequency Agile Solar Radiotelescope, by Tim Bastian, National Radio Astronomy Obeservatory We describe the science objectives and technical requirements for a re-scoped Frequency Agile Solar Radiotelescope (FASR). FASR fulfills a long term community need for a ground-based, solar-dedicated, radio telescope – a next-generation radioheliograph - designed to perform ultra-broadband imaging spectropolarimetry.
The Case for Probe-class NASA Astrophysics Missions, by Martin Elvis, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian We advocate that the Astro2020 Decadal recommend a new line item for Probe-class missions be instituted in the NASA Astrophysics Division budget. The key insight from the Probes exercise is that order-of-magnitude advances in science performance are possible across the board at this cost level.
The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), by Michael Levi, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory We present the status of the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) and its plans and opportunities for the coming decade. DESI is an approved experiment of the U.S. Department of Energy. Beyond 2025, we expect that DESI will remain one of the world's best facilities for wide-field spectroscopy throughout the decade.
The Atacama Large Aperture Submillimeter Telescope (AtLAST), by Pamela Klaassen, UK Astronomy Technology Centre Overview of the science cases for, and technologies required for a new single dish sub-mm telescope. AtLAST is envisioned as a 50m diameter single dish with a 1deg field of view that will be able to map the large scale structures of the Universe inaccessible to ALMA with mapping speeds 1000s of times faster than current or planned facilities.
Origins Space Telescope: From First Light to Life, by Asantha Cooray, UC Irvine The Origins Space Telescope is one of four large missions studied by by the community with NASA support in preparation for the Decadal Survey.
The Science Ready Data Products Revolution at the NRAO, by Jeffrey Kern, NRAO The Science Ready Data Products (SRDP) project is transforming the National Radio Astronomy Observatory's data management systems to support a diverse community today, and in the next decade. This paper describes the background, goals, status, and plans of the SRDP project, concentrating on the software, data management, and computing aspects.
The Data Lab: A Science Platform for the analysis of ground-based astronomical survey data, by Knut Olsen, National Optical Astronomy Observatory The goal of the NOAO Data Lab is to enable efficient archival use of massive survey data, with particular focus on datasets obtained from NOAO's wide-field survey telescopes. We describe how the Data Lab will be a core part of the critical data mission of a National Observatory in the 2020s.
MIDI: the Major Instrumentation Design Incubation program to ensure and bolster future ground based OIR science, by Marc Kassis, W. M. Keck Observatory New instrumentation on large OIR facilities has notional price tags frequently exceeding $10 million. Unfortunately, many recent instruments exceed their cost and schedule estimates. To tackle these issues, we argue here for the need for a sustained funding program for instrument design studies to bring instruments to preliminary design review.
Evolving ground/space coordination to maximize the science of the 2020s and beyond, by John O'Meara, W. M. Keck Observatory Many of the key science programs of the 2020s and beyond will not only benefit from ground/space coordination, but require it. Here, we outline a number of issues to consider in evolving future ground/space coordination, highlight areas for advancement, and suggest a path forward.
A Science-Driven Vision for ALMA in the 2030s, by Crystal Brogan, National Radio Astronomy Observatory We describe the ALMA Development Program and the 2030 ``Development Roadmap'', including new ambitious community-driven science goals for the next decade, as well as the near-term to longer-term upgrades that will be needed to achieve them. With this submission we seek support for continued investment in ALMA's future.
EarthFinder: A Probe Mission Concept, by Peter Plavchan, George Mason University EarthFinder is a NASA Astrophysics Probe mission concept selected for study as input to the 2020 Astrophysics Decadal. The primary science goals of EarthFinder are the precise radial velocity (PRV) detection, precise mass measurement, and orbit characterization of Earth-mass planets in Habitable Zone orbits around the nearest FGKM stars.
A partial solution to the 'Postdoc Crisis' is needed, by Peter Plavchan, George Mason University The challenges of being a postdoc in the field of astronomy is a frequent topic of conversation. These challenges create barriers to the diversity of our faculty. In this white paper, we gather and examine a few statistics that may give rise to some of the challenges of the status quo, and propose some possible partial solutions for consideration.
Trinity: An Air-Shower Imaging Instrument to detect Ultrahigh Energy Neutrinos, by Nepomuk Otte, Georgia Institute of Technology Trinity is an air-shower imaging system for the detection of earth-skimming ultrahigh energy tau neutrinos. Trinity will narrow in on source classes responsible for the astrophysical neutrino flux measured by IceCube, it will help find the sources of UHECR and understand the composition of UHECR, and it will test fundamental neutrino physics.
Integrating Undergraduate Research and Faculty Development in a Legacy Astronomy Research Project, by Rebecca Koopmann, Union College We present results from a highly successful model of faculty development and undergraduate research and education, the Undergraduate ALFALFA Team (UAT), an NSF-sponsored 23-institution collaboration. We recommend that granting agencies identify funding resources to support similar efforts for other large-scale scientific projects.
The Case for a Fully Funded Green Bank Telescope, by Karen O'Neil, Green Bank Observatory The NSF has reduced its funding for peer-reviewed use on the GBT to ~3900 hours/year, 60% of available science time. This greatly increases the telescope pressure & fragments the schedule, making it very difficult to allocate time for even the highest rated projects planned for the next decade. Here we seek funding for 1500 more hours annually.
Research and Development for HI Intensity Mapping, by Peter Timbie, University of Wisconsin The paper outlines research and development needed over the next decade to enable three-dimension mapping of the Universe using the 21 cm line of neutral hydrogen.
The Role of National Observatories in Professional Astronomy Training, by Karen O'Neil, Green Bank Observatory Observatories are where textbook learning confronts reality. Observatories train astronomers how to interpret data and push the limits of what is possible with current telescopes, critical skills for the advancement of astronomical research. We must commit to investing in observatory training programs to ensure future success.
Green Bank Observatory - Broader Impact, by Karen O'Neil, Green Bank Observatory During the next decade, Green Bank Observatory will continue to create unique STEM learning experiences that combine the technical work done onsite with real-world educational experiences for students, educators, and professional scientists. Learning by doing is the philosophy behind all Observatory STEM programs.
ngGONG -- The Next Generation GONG – A New Solar Synoptic Observational Network, by Frank Hill, National Solar Observatory The white paper describes a next-generation GONG, a ground-based geographically distributed network of instrumentation to continually observe the Sun. This would provide data for solar magnetic field research and space weather forecasting, and would extend the time coverage of helioseismology.
The Nonbinary Fraction: Looking Towards the Future of Gender Equity in Astronomy, by Kaitlin Rasmussen, University of Notre Dame & Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics and Center for the Evolution of the Elements This paper presents a summary of past and current studies of gender in astronomy, most of which either fail to acknowledge the existence of nonbinary people or intentionally omit us from statistical analyses. We then offer a series of recommendations to correct this issue and incorporate a more complex understanding of gender in space science.
WAET: low-cost ground based telescopes for accelerated exoplanet direct imaging, by Benjamin Monreal, Case Western Reserve University The Wide Aperture Exoplanet Telescope (WAET) is a new ground-based optical telescope layout with an extremely asymmetric aperture, which results in new exoplanet imaging reach at very low cost. We suggest that hWAET, a 100x2m telescope, can be built for $150M in the 2020s, and >300m versions merit further R\&D.
The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna: Unveiling the Millihertz Gravitational Wave Sky, by James Ira Thorpe, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center This whitepaper summarizes the status of the ESA-led Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission and advocates for an increased US role within the `medium` mission category. The LISA science case, mission concept, technical readiness, and organizational partnerships are summarized and broad scenarios for US participation are described.
The Advanced Particle-astrophysics Telescope (APT), by James Buckley, Washington University in St. Louis We propose a mission concept for a space-based gamma-ray and cosmic-ray explorer known as the Advanced Particle-astrophysics Telescope (APT). The instrument design is driven by two scientific objectives: (1) to confirm or rule out the WIMP dark matter paradigm and (2) to promptly localize the electromagnetic counterparts of neutron-star mergers.
Ground Based Optical Astronomy – Keeping the Innovation Window Open, by Stephen Ridgway, NOAO The trend toward very large projects, dramatically increased data access, and reduced telescope access, is transforming our way of doing science - for the better in some respects but not all. This paper reviews the changes, the implications, and makes recommendations to optimize the mix.
Ultra-Stable Telescope Research and Analysis (ULTRA), by Laura Coyle, Ball Aerospace Ultra-Stable Large Telescope Research and Analysis (ULTRA) is a system study performed by an industry consortium led by Ball Aerospace to evaluate potential architectures, perform trade studies, and identify technology gaps that must be addressed to enable picometer-level optical stability in space to support the LUVOIR/HabEx concepts.
ngVLA: The Next Generation Very Large Array, by Mark McKinnon, National Radio Astronomy Observatory This white paper describes the science case and reference design for a next-generation radio/mm telescope to be operated by AUI/NRAO. The ngVLA will have 10 times the sensitivity and spatial resolution of the VLA and ALMA and operate at frequencies spanning ∼1.2−116 GHz, opening a new frontier in astrophysics through thermal imaging on mas scales.
Enhancing WFIRST Science with the Addition of a Redder Filter, by George Helou, Caltech We outline a number of science advantages for adding a K or Ks filter (lamba_c ~ 2.15 microns) and propose to extend the wavelength coverage for WFIRST into the K-band, where the gains of going to space are much more pronounced than at shorter wavelengths.
Cosmic Evolution Through UV Spectroscopy (CETUS) Probe-Class Mission Concept, by William Danchi, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center CETUS is a concept for an affordable, Probe-Class mission based on a 1.5-m-aperture space telescope with a wide FOV covering UV wavelengths from ~100 to ~400 nm. The set of science instruments consists of a wide-field camera , a wide-field Multi-Object Spectrograph, and a Point/slit Source echelle Spectrograph with high spectral resolution.
Transient Astrophysics Probe, by Jordan Camp, Goddard Space Flight Center The Transient Astrophysics Probe (TAP) is a multi-wavelength observatory featuring 1) characterization of EM counterparts to GWs with mass scales from neutron stars to SMBH binaries and 2) a broad range of transient astrophysics phenomena involving compact objects. TAP will support a large user community, and fits within the $1B Probe cost cap.
Advanced Mechanical Cryocooler Technology Maturation, by Weibo Chen, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology Efficient, long-life 4 K mechanical cryocoolers with low exported vibrations are a critical enabling technology for future space astronomy and astrophysics missions. However, the technology is still at TRL 4-5. A maturation plan is proposed with NASA investment in a public-private partnership geared toward providing long-term affordable solutions.
A NASA-led US Contribution to the ESA/JAXA SPICA Mission: Unveiling the Dust Obscured Universe, by Asantha Cooray, University of California, Irvine The Space Infrared Telescope for Cosmology and Astrophysics (SPICA) will conduct sensitive observations of the Universe at mid- and far-Infrared wavelengths. A NASA-led contribution is proposed to further enhance SPICA's capabilities, broadening its scientific scope, and to allow US community access to key programs and general observing time.
Multiwavelength Astrophysics in the Era of the ngVLA and the US ELT Program, by Anthony Beasley, AUI/NRAO We explore science synergies of the US ELT Program and the ngVLA. We also examine issues raised by the costs of building and operating flagship facilities, and strategies for maintaining the health of the US astronomical community and its international leadership. We propose a time-phased strategy to complete both facilities in the coming decade.
The Habitable Exoplanet Observatory (HabEx), by Scott Gaudi, The Ohio State University The Habitable Exoplanet Observatory has been designed to be the Great Observatory of the 2030s. We describe the science drivers, architectures, instrumentation and implementation, observing strategy, alternate design, technology readiness, cost and schedule, and potential partnerships.
Securing The Infrastructure of High-Energy Cross-Calibration, by Kristin Madsen, California Institute of Technology We discuss the state of cross-calibration and advocate that it should no longer be viewed as just an instrument specific activity, performed within the respective instrument teams only, but as a continual process transitioning from one mission to the next, using knowledge gained from many observatories and the cross-calibration between them.
Science and Design for the Giant Radio Array for Neutrino Detection, by Miguel Mostafa, Pennsylvania State University GRAND is a planned large-scale observatory of ultra-high energy (UHE) cosmic messengers with energies exceeding 10^8 GeV. The ultimate goal is to solve the long-standing mystery of the origin of UHE cosmic rays. Three key features of GRAND will make this possible: its large exposure, sub-degree angular resolution, and sensitivity to UHE particles.
Overturning Intentional Barriers to Participation, by Stuart F. Taylor, Participation Worldscope The astronomy community is not protecting the participation of scientists in cases of overtly excluding target members. Nothing can be more harmful to inclusion than over exclusion. No recourse is given for dishonest disparagement of being kept off papers. The community lacks effective mechanisms to reverse or even study exclusionary behavior.
Argus+: Wide-Field, High Resolution 3mm Molecular Imaging, by David Frayer, Green Bank Observatory The Green Bank Observatory plans to construct a 144-element radio camera for the GBT, called Argus+, to enable wide-field spectroscopic studies in the 3mm band (74-116 GHz). Argus+ will provide high spatial resolution maps of interstellar molecules from the scale of entire galactic disks to the sub-parsec scale of filaments and dense cloud cores.
2020 Vision: Towards a Sustainable OIR System, by Sally Oey, University of Michigan US astronomy needs open-access telescopes of all apertures. We urge Astro2020 to explicitly promote the modest (1-4 m) facilities, and to recommend enhancing their funding stream. Further study is needed to prioritize their exciting potential capabilities, and to establish sustainable, long-term planning for the ground-based, OIR System.
Another Servicing Mission to Extend Hubble Space Telescope's Science past the Next Decade, by Mercedes Lopez-Morales, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian Hubble has produced astonishing science during its lifetime. Without Hubble, progress in UV and blue optical astrophysics will be halted for the next two decades. We recommend NASA, ESA, and the private sector study the scientific merit, technical feasibility, and risk of a new servicing mission to fix Hubble and expand its instrumentation.
Light Pollution, Radio Interference, and Space Debris: Threats and Opportunities in the 2020s, by Jeffrey Hall, Lowell Observatory In this white paper, we will outline threats to astronomy in the areas of light pollution, radio interference, and space debris, and we will specify key principles and policy points that the AAS and other advocates can use in mitigating these threats.
The Compton Spectrometer and Imager, by John Tomsick, UC Berkeley COSI is a SMEX mission that provides a significant improvement in 0.2-5 MeV sensitivity along with high-resolution spectroscopy, enabling studies of 511 keV positron annihilation emission and measurements of radioactive elements. COSI measures polarization of GRBs, accreting black holes, and pulsars as well as localizing multimessenger sources.
Astro2020 must issue actionable recommendations regarding diversity, inclusion, and harassment, by Jane Rigby, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Astro2010 failed to issue recommendations on diversity and inclusion. Astro2020 cannot make the same mistake. Findings can be ignored by funding agencies; recommendations cannot. Astro2020 should play a key role, by producing actionable recommendations to support diversity and inclusion and stop harassment within astronomy.
POEMMA: Probe of Extreme Multi-Messenger Astrophysics, by Angela Olinto, The University of Chicago The Probe Of Extreme Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (POEMMA) is a probe Class B mission designed to observe ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) and cosmic neutrinos from space. Astro2020 APC white paper: Medium-class Space Particle Astrophysics Project Science White papers on Compact Objects and Energetic Phenomena; Galaxies; Cosmology.
A better consensus: Changes to the Decadal process itself, by David W Hogg, New York University We recommend changes to the Decadal process to make it more transparent and democratic: Make panel appointments more transparent; remove NDAs on panel members; educate the community about the decision-making; provide written documentation about how white papers will be used; and give the community an opportunity to approve the final reports.
High-Contrast Testbeds for Future Space-Based Direct Imaging Exoplanet Missions, by Johan Mazoyer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory High-contrast imaging instrumentation has greatly advanced over the last two decades and two of the NASA-commissioned large studies (LUVOIR & HabEX) include an instrument to image and characterize exo-Earths. This paper describes the status and goal of 8 optical testbeds currently in operation to experimentally validate the necessary technologies.
The Navy Precision Optical Interferometer, by Gerard van Belle, Lowell Observatory We outline a plan for NPOI for 2020-2030 that will provide the highest resolution visible-light system on the planet, with multi-km baselines and sub-mas imaging. This capability will resolve the sizes and shapes of stars, resolve AGNs, image protoplanetary disks, and observe the passage of exoplanets across their stellar disks.
Robust Archives Maximize Scientific Accessibility, by Joshua Peek, Space Telescope Science Institute We present a bibliographic analysis of Chandra, Hubble, and Spitzer publications. We find (a) archival data are used in >60% of the publication output and (b) archives enable a much broader set of institutions and countries to scientifically use data from these missions. This "scientific accessibility" is crucial for astronomy in the 2020s.
Starshade Rendezvous Probe Mission, by Sara Seager, Massachusetts Institute of Technology The Starshade Rendezvous Probe is a direct imaging space-based exoplanet mission consisting of a starshade flying with WFIRST at L2. Starshade Rendezvous will 'deep dive' observe at least ten nearby sunlike stars searching for and spectrally characterizing all planetary system components, including planets down to Earth size.
The Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite, by Richard Mushotzky, University of Maryland The Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite (AXIS), is a Probe-Class mission concept that builds on the legacy of Chandra and Swift. With high spatial resolution, large collecting area, and rapid response to transients, AXIS will be 50 times more sensitive than Chandra to extended sources, and 100 times more sensitive than Swift for time-domain science.
Community Science and Data-Intensive Astronomy Support at the US National Optical Astronomy Observatory, by Adam Bolton, National Optical Astronomy Observatory Research opportunity in modern astronomy is defined by both access to observing facilities and access to data. We describe the NOAO Community Science and Data Center's integrated approach to both modes of access. We recommend that the Decadal Survey endorse a strong program of data services as a critical function of a modern National Observatory.
Astro2020 State of the Profession: Realistic Job Training for Astro PhDs, by Jonathan Trump, University of Connecticut We outline a series of recommendations to improve the state of the profession through changes in the training of astronomy PhDs and postdocs, better preparing junior astronomers for a broad range of careers.
The Southern Wide-Field Gamma-Ray Observatory (SWGO): A Next-Generation Ground-Based Survey Instrument, by Petra Huentemeyer, Michigan Technological University We propose a next-generation gamma-ray survey observatory, the Southern Wide-field Gamma-ray Observatory (SWGO), to be built in South America at high altitude. SWGO with its wide field of view and continuous observations will provide the sensitivity from below 1 TeV to beyond 100 TeV to constrain the extreme physics of the multi-messenger universe.
Research scientists in support of facilities and missions: Facility support and research as an interlocked pair, by David Soderblom, Space Telescope Science Institute Scientists who themselves depend on the facilities that they support have a much deeper knowledge of the facilities, leading to better user support, new modes, more efficient telescope use, and overall more and better scientific output. This white paper supports the value of research scientists at facilities and missions.
Laboratory Astrophysics Needs for X-ray Grating Spectrometers, by Randall Smith, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian New X-ray gratings provide far higher sensitivity and resolution, but to use the capabilities, improvements are needed in measurements of wavelengths, radiative and collisional transition rates, as well as ionization and recombination cross sections. Significant progress also needs to be made in understanding the theoretical atomic physics.
EUROPEAN WORK ON FUTUREGROUND-BASED CMB EXPERIMENTS, by Kenneth Ganga, AstroParticle and Cosmology Lab The "European CMB Coordinator" group has a roadmap consisting of three axes: One is to build and deploy a 5m reflecting telescope at the South Pole; a second is to build and deploy 0.5m refracting telescopes in the Atacama Desert in Chile; and a third is to deploy low-frequency telescopes aimed at characterizing the sky in the 5-40GHz range.
The Galaxy Evolution Probe, by Jason Glenn, University of Colorado Boulder The Galaxy Evolution Probe (GEP) is a NASA Astrophysics Probe concept designed to address key questions about star formation and supermassive black hole growth in galaxies over cosmic time. GEP will achieve its goals with large mid- and far-infrared imaging and spectroscopic surveys.
CMB Spectral Distortions: Status and Prospects, by Alan Kogut, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Departures of the energy spectrum of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) from a perfect blackbody probe a fundamental property of the universe -- its thermal history. We outline a program to improve current limits to spectral distortions by 3 orders of magnitude, testing the standard model and opening a vast discovery space for new physics.
Primarily Undergraduate Institutions and the Astronomy Community, by Joseph Ribaudo, Providence College This White Paper highlights the role Primarily Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) play within the astronomy profession, addressing issues related to employment, resources and support, research opportunities and productivity, and educational and societal impacts.
Enabling Science Learning: Effectively Providing a Direct Connection to the Science, by Denise Smith, Space Telescope Science Institute This whitepaper describes a model for enabling science learning that is based upon a partnership between multiple institutions with a direct connection to the science, data, and scientists associated with NASA's Astrophysics missions and research programs.
Research scientists in support of facilities and missions: Facility support and research as an interlocked pair, by David Soderblom, Space Telescope Science Institute Scientists who themselves depend on the facilities that they support have a much deeper knowledge of the facilities, leading to better user support, new modes, more efficient telescope use, and overall more and better scientific output. This white paper supports the value of research scientists at facilities and missions.
Using Artificial Intelligence to Augment Science Prioritization for Astro2020, by Brian Thomas, NASA We present a proposal to apply AI to aid the Decadal Survey panel in prioritizing science objectives. We emphasize that while AI can assist a mass review of papers, the decision-making remains with humans. In our paper below we summarize the case for using AI in this manner and suggest small inexpensive demonstration trials.
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory through the 2030s: Strategic Goals and Initiatives, by Anthony Beasley, National Radio Astronomy Observatory The strategic goals and initiatives of the U.S. National Radio Astronomy Observatory are linked to the scientific promise of radio astronomy in the coming decades. Powerful instruments and technical capabilities will enable new areas of exploration, with a strong focus on education, outreach, and diversity supporting the science mission.
The X-ray Grating Spectroscopy Probe, by Randall McEntaffer, Pennsylvania State University An X-ray Grating Spectroscopy Probe (XGS-P) mission utilizing diffraction gratings can access the key low energy X-ray bandpass and provide the performance requirements necessary to address key science questions in the areas of hot baryon dynamics, black hole feedback, and stellar lifecycles.
Far-Infrared Heterodyne Array Receivers, by Imran Mehdi, Jet Propulsion Laboratory Heterodyne spectroscopic instruments are currently the only practical technical approach for obtaining velocity-resolved spectra in the far infrared. Moreover, to produce the large-scale maps of molecular clouds envisioned for future missions, large-format (100's pixels) array receivers are required, which is the focus of this whitepaper.
The need for single-mode fiber-fed spectrographs, by Jonathan Crass, University of Notre Dame The use of single-mode fibers to feed astronomical instruments is becoming a reality through technological advancements and improvements in adaptive optics. A key application is in high-spatial and high-spectral resolution measurements which offer a pathway to improve radial velocity precision for exoplanet and other astronomical studies.
Ex Luna Scientia: The Lunar Occultation eXplorer (LOX), by Richard Miller, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory The Lunar Occultation eXplorer (LOX) is a lunar-orbiting nuclear astrophysics (0.1-10 MeV) Explorer-class mission that will probe the Cosmos at MeV energies and enable the first systematic survey of thermonuclear (Type-Ia) supernovae at gamma-ray energies to reveal their progenitors, explosion mechanisms, and intrinsic diversity.
PolyOculus: Low-cost Spectroscopy for the Community, by Stephen Eikenberry, University of Florida A key challenge for astronomy in the time-domain era is the lack of spectroscopic followup facilities. We have developed PolyOculus to produce large-area telescopes using fiber optics to link multiple semi-autonomous, small, commercial-off-the-shelf telescopes. This has construction costs which are >10x lower than traditional telescopes.
Scheduling Discovery in the 2020s, by Eric Bellm, University of Washington The 2020s will be the most data-rich decade of astronomy in history. As the scale and complexity of our surveys increase, the problem of scheduling becomes more critical. We must develop high-quality scheduling approaches, implement them as open-source software, and begin linking the typically separate stages of observation and data analysis.
The Maunakea Spectroscopic Explorer, by Jennifer Marshall, MSE/Texas A&M University The Maunakea Spectroscopic Explorer is a next-generation massively multiplexed spectroscopic facility currently under development in Hawaii. It is completely dedicated to large-scale spectroscopic surveys and will enable transformative science. In this white paper we summarize the science case and describe the current state of the project.
Mirror Coating Technology and Infrastructure Plans for HabEx and LUVOIR NASA Concept Missions, by David Sheikh, ZeCoat Corporation A strategy for advancing coating technology development and new coating infrastructure in support of LUVOIR and HabEx are presented. ZeCoat's strategic decision to build a new coating facility with river-barge access will help enable the swift and economical realization of new heavy-launch, space-based telescopes during the next decade.
Durable Agency Support for Exoplanet Catalogs and Archives, by Joshua Pepper, Lehigh University Catalogs of known exoplanets and host stars are used for demographic, population, and statistical studies, or for identifying targets for future observations. Long-term agency support and maintenance of exoplanet archives is of crucial importance to achieving the scientific goals of the community and the strategic goals of the funding agencies.
Advanced Astrophysics Discovery Technology in the Era of Data Driven Astronomy, by Richard Barry, NASA/GSFC We propose the creation of a new ROSES Astrophysics element, Advanced Astrophysics Discovery Technology, based loosely on ESD's Advanced Information Systems Technology element, which would seek to advance data science and new observing technology as an ongoing priority in close partnership with the more narrowly defined science/applications elements.
The Social Sciences Interdisciplinarity for Astronomy and Astrophysics - Lessons from the History of NASA and Related Fields, by Anamaria Berea, Blue Marble Space Institute of Science We showcase the importance of understanding and measuring interdisciplinarity and other -disciplinarity concepts for all scientists, the role social sciences have historically played at NASA, and the sparsity of social science interdisciplinarity in space and planetary sciences, while there is an imperative necessity for it.
A Need for Dedicated Outreach Expertise and Online Programming, by Amanda Bauer, AURA/LSST Maximizing the public impact of astronomy projects in the next decade requires NSF-funded centers to support the development of online, mobile-friendly outreach and education activities. EPO teams with astronomy, education, and web development expertise should be in place to build accessible programs at scale and support astronomers doing outreach.
The Magdalena Ridge Observatory Interferometer, by Michelle Creech-Eakman, New Mexico Tech/MROI The Magdalena Ridge Observatory Interferometer (MROI) is an ambitious project to become the world's first long-baseline optical/infrared interferometer focused solely on a mission to image faint and complex astronomical targets. In this paper we discuss the anticipated scientific breakthroughs and plans to complete the facility during the decade.
ANUBIS – A Probe-Class UVO Space Observatory (AstroNomical Uv proBe Imager & Spectrograph), by Paul Scowen, Arizona State University We propose a next generation Probe-class UV-optical (UVO) observatory called ANUBIS that is capable of conducting wide-field imaging and far-ultraviolet (FUV) spectroscopic surveys to address critical topics in modern astrophysics and planetary science.
Setting the Stage for the Planet Formation Imager, by John Monnier, University of Michigan The Planet Formation Imager (PFI) is a next-generation infrared interferometer designed to image the active phases of planet formation and to take planetary ``snapshots'' of young systems. We outline a technology plan to make PFI a reality, identifying a potential breakthrough opportunity for making inexpensive large telescopes available.
High-resolution Infrared Spectrograph for Exoplanet Characterization with the Keck and Thirty Meter Telescopes, by Dimitri Mawet, Caltech/JPL HISPEC (High-resolution Infrared Spectrograph for Exoplanet Characterization) is a proposed diffraction-limited spectrograph for the W.M. Keck Observatory, and a pathfinder for the MODHIS facility project (Multi-Object Diffraction-limited High-resolution Infrared Spectrograph) on the Thirty Meter Telescope.
A Hua He Inoa: Hawaiian Culture-Based Celestial Naming, by Kaiu Kimura, Imiloa Astronomy Center, University of Hawaii, Hilo The Imiloa Astronomy Center, in partnership with Hawaii-based astronomical observatories offers the A Hua He Inoa project. This project weaves traditional indigenous practices into the official naming of astronomical discoveries. It is an effort that shifts global paradigms by including Hawaiian youth into the process of astronomical discovery.
Spectrum Management: A State of the Profession White Paper, by Liese van Zee, Indiana University This Astro2020 APC white paper addresses state of the profession considerations regarding spectrum management for the protection of radio astronomy observations.
The Cosmic Accelerometer, by Stephen Eikenberry, University of Florida We propose a Cosmic Accelerometer, designed for velocity precision of ≤1 cm/s over years to decades. This Astro2020 'Small' program will be ideal for radial velocity measurements of terrestrial exoplanets in the Habitable Zone of Sun-like stars. It will also be the technical pathfinder for a future facility to measure cosmological redshift drift.
Astro 2020 State of the Profession White Paper: EPO Vision, Needs, and Opportunities through Citizen Science, by Laura Trouille, Zooniverse, The Adler Planetarium, Northwestern University We highlight the achievements and provide a vision for citizen science as an accelerator for astronomical discovery, learning, and positive cultural change, and provide recommendations for maximizing the potential of citizen science to advance research, science literacy, positive attitudes towards science, and inclusiveness over the next decade.
ANTARES: Enabling Time-Domain Discovery in the 2020s, by Thomas Matheson, National Optical Astronomy Observatory We describe the scientific goals and capabilities of the ANTARES project. This is a software infrastructure system designed to process time-domain alerts at the scale the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope will produce. This system will allow access to large-scale time-domain streams with real-time filters, machine learning, and other tools.
The Case for Probe-class NASA Astrophysics Missions, by Martin Elvis, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian We advocate that the Astro2020 Decadal recommend a new line item for Probe-class missions be instituted in the NASA Astrophysics Division budget. The key insight from the Probes exercise is that order-of-magnitude advances in science performance are possible across the board at this cost level.
The Social Sciences Interdisciplinarity for Astronomy and Astrophysics - Lessons from the History of NASA and Related Fields, by Anamaria Berea, Blue Marble Space Institute of Science In this paper we showcase the importance of understanding and measuring interdisciplinarity and other -disciplinarity concepts for all scientists, the role social sciences have historically played in NASA research and missions, the sparsity of social science interdisciplinarity in space and planetary sciences, including astronomy and astrophysics.
Multivariable Parametric Cost Model for Ground and Space Telescope Assemblies, by H Philip Stahl, NASA The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center has developed a 5-parameter cost model that explains 92% (Adjusted R2) of the cost variation in a database of 47 total ground and space telescope assemblies (OTA), where OTA is defined to include primary & secondary mirrors, and structure.
A Space-based All-sky MeV gamma-ray Survey with the Electron Tracking Compton Camera, by Kenji Hamaguchi, NASA/GSFC & UMBC MeV gamma-ray astronomy has not progressed remarkably since the 1990s. Tanimori et al. have developed an electron tracking Compton camera (ETCC), which made successful MeV gamma-ray astronomical observations with a superb sensitivity in a 1-day balloon flight in 2018. We advocate for a space-based all-sky survey mission with the upgraded ETCCs.
A Science Platform Network to Facilitate Astrophysics in the 2020s, by Vandana Desai, Caltech/IPAC We advocate for the adequate funding of data centers to develop and operate 'science platforms', which will provide storage and computing resources for the astronomical community to run analyses near the data. Furthermore, these platforms should be connected to enable cross-center analysis and processing.
A Decade of US Community Access to the Large Millimeter Telescope Alfonso Serrano, by Peter Schloerb, University of Massachusetts Amherst The LMT is a 50m-diameter millimeter-wave radio telescope built by Mexico and UMass Amherst. The telescope is now complete and ready for operation. This proposal offers to make observing time on the LMT generally available to the US community in return for assistance with operational costs and modest investments in telescope infrastructure.
Community Involvement in the WFIRST Exoplanet Microlensing Survey, by David Bennett, NASA GSFC and University of Maryland WFIRST is NASA's first flagship mission with predefined core core science programs. We present a set of high level data products that will enable broad participation in the science of the exoplanet microlensing survey and a community science team concept that will allow broad community involvement in the survey development and scientific output.
Planetary Radar Astronomy with Ground-Based Astrophysical Assets, by Patrick Taylor, Lunar and Planetary Institute Planetary radar of near-Earth asteroids is vital to accomplish the federal mandates of tracking and characterization in the George E. Brown, Jr. Near-Earth Object Survey Act. Any loss of access to shared-use astrophysical assets (single-dish radio telescopes) would be detrimental to planetary defense on the timescale of the decadal survey.
Advanced Capabilities for the Green Bank Telescope, by Ryan Lynch, Green Bank Observatory We describe projects to advance the capabilities of the GBT in survey speed, bandwidth, interference mitigation, preservation of legacy data, and community access. These upgrades will impact the study of GW and MM astronomy, fundamental physics, FRBs, cosmology, star formation, astrochemistry, distant galaxies, and searches for technosignatures.
A Realistic Roadmap to Formation Flying Space Interferometry, by John Monnier, University of Michigan The ultimate astronomical observatory would be a formation flying space interferometer, combining sensitivity and stability with high angular resolution. The smallSat revolution offers a new and maturing prototyping platform for space interferometry and we put forward a realistic plan for achieving first stellar fringes in space by 2030.
Infrastructure and Strategies for Time Domain and MMA and Follow-Up, by Bryan Miller, Gemini Observatory Time domain and multi-messenger astrophysics are growing and important areas for the 2020s. Effort being put into developing the components of a follow-up system for dynamically turning alerts into data needs continued support and funding. This will allow the most science from new facilities such as LSST and improve productivity for all observers.
The Importance of Telescope Training in Data Interpretation, by David Whelan, Austin College We argue that hands-on observing training is essential for observational astronomers. We recommend three avenues by which the community can support hands-on observing, especially for students, including travel support, utilizing campus observatories, and updating mid-size professional observatories.
Laboratory Astrophysics Needs for X-ray Calorimeter Observatories, by Timothy Kallman, NASA/GSFC Optimizing the science return of the next generation of observatories that employ X-ray calorimeters will require atomic data of sufficient accuracy to permit reliably modeling and interpreting high-resolution X-ray spectra. This white paper identifies the most relevant tasks related to laboratory astrophysics that are still outstanding.
Revitalizing the Optical/Infrared Interferometry Community in the U.S., by Stephen Ridgway, NOAO Long baseline optical/infrared interferometry (LBOI) has produced groundbreaking results in stellar astrophysics and is essential for the future of high-resolution observations. We describe capabilities and recent results, discuss the development of LBOI in the U.S., and make recommendations for the support and growth of U.S. interferometry.
Advancing Space Science Requires NASA Support for Coordination Between the Science Mission Directorate Communities, by Kathleen Mandt, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory We outline specific steps that NASA and the space science community can take to advance collaboration and coordination between the communities represented by the four NASA Science Mission Directorate Divisions. It is important to note that the only way that this effort can succeed is if NASA initiates and supports it through directed resources.
The Probe-class mission concept, Cosmic Evolution Through UV Surveys (CETUS), by Sara Heap, University of Maryland CETUS is a 1.5-m, wide-field UV observatory that will be a worthy successor to Hubble. Its distinguishing characteristics include multi-object slit spectroscopy, long-slit spectroscopy, spectroscopy in the Lyman-UV, prompt-response observations, and detection of low-surface brightness objects. These new capabilities ensure future discoveries.
CubeSats for Astronomy and Astrophysics, by Ewan Douglas, University of Arizona We endorse on the findings of the The 2016 report 'Achieving Science with CubeSats' [National Academies of Sciences, 2016] and expand on them, suggest the consideration of several details including increased mission cadence, standard spacecraft buses, and streamlining of licensing.
Maximizing Science Return of SmallSats with Programmatic Support, by Varoujan Gorjian, JPL/Caltech A new opportunity is opening up to the astrophysics community with the advent of SmallSats to do innovative astrophysics from space. But the infrastructure support for them right now is limited. We propose that NASA set up a support infrastructure for SmallSats by paying for common services separate from approved SmallSat budgets.
A Different Kind of Dark Energy: Evidence for Placing Race and Gender in Physics, by Lauren Chambers, Space Telescope Science Institute I present the findings from my 2017 African American Studies thesis examining race, gender, and astrophysics. This work critically analyzes the culture and theory of physics and astronomy through the perspective of Black women, presents evidence for a sexist-racist physics, and offers guidelines for moving towards an anti-racist feminist physics.
Funding Strategy Impacts and Alternative Funding Approaches for NASA's Future Flagship Mission Developments, by Julie Crooke, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center NASA's flagship developments have historical cost and schedule growth. A repeated offender is funding: funding assessments and funding execution. This white paper explores strategies to improve both of these: have more accurate cost assessments and more appropriate funding methods for significantly better development cost and schedule performance.
A Beam-Forming Receiver for the GBT at 23 GHz, by Lawrence Morgan, Green Bank Observatory We propose to support the design, construction and commissioning of a K-band (18-26 GHz) phased array feed receiver/beam-former, able to form 225 beams (i.e. a 225 pixel spectroscopic camera) for the 100m diameter Green Bank Telescope. This instrument will greatly enhance capabilities in the study of star formation, astrochemistry and other fields.
HEX-P: The High-Energy X-ray Probe, by Kristin Madsen, California Institute of Technology The High-Energy X-ray Probe (HEX-P) is a next-generation high-energy X-ray observatory with broadband (2-200 keV) response that has 40 times the sensitivity of any previous mission in the 10-80 keV band and > 100 times the sensitivity of any previous mission in the 80-200 keV band.
Preparing for the Discovery of Life Beyond Earth, by Kathryn Denning, York University, Toronto, Canada We address an urgent issue in the state of the profession. Extraterrestrial life may be detected within years or decades, and for the sake of involved scientists and the broader community, substantial support is vital for collaborative interdisciplinary research (science, social science, humanities) on the social impacts of searches and discovery.
Towards a Spectroscopic Survey Roadmap for the 2020s and Beyond, by Adam Bolton, National Optical Astronomy Observatory Wide-field survey spectroscopy is essential to realizing the astrophysics potential of LSST and other imaging surveys. We review the strong case for this capability, summarize available options to meet the need, and provide strategic recommendations to enable national scientific progress and leadership in this area in the coming decade.
PolStar – An Explorer-Class FUV Spectropolarimetry Mission to Map the Environments of Massive Stars, by Paul Scowen, Arizona State University PolStar is an Explorer-class far ultraviolet (FUV) spectropolarimetry mission designed to target massive stars and their environments. PolStar will take advantage of resonance lines only available in the FUV to measure for the first time the magnetic and wind environment around massive stars to constrain models of rotation and mass loss.
Applications of Microthrusters on Astrophysics Missions with Demanding Jitter Requirements – a White Paper, by Aron Wolf, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology Future Astrophysics missions need improved pointing stability which is difficult to provide with reaction wheels, often the largest disturbance. Microthrusters developed for LISA could make it easier and cheaper to achieve tight pointing stability. The NASA Engineering and Safety Center is now studying benefits of microthrusters compared to wheels.
Committee on the Status of Women in Astronomy: Towards Eliminating Harassment in Astronomy, by Nicolle Zellner, Albion College The Committee on the Status of Women in Astronomy (CSWA) is calling on federal science funding agencies, in their role as the largest sources of funding for astronomy in the United States, to take actions that will end harassment, particularly sexual harassment, in astronomical workplaces.
Committee on the Status of Women in Astronomy: Advancing the Career Development of Women in Astronomy, by Nicolle Zellner, Albion College The Committee on the Status of Women in Astronomy (CSWA) is calling on federal science funding agencies, in their role as the largest sources of funding for astronomy in the United States, to take actions that will advance career development and improve workplace conditions for women and minorities in astronomy.
The Enabling Capabilities of the Super Pressure Balloon Platform: Diffraction-Limited, Wide-field Imaging from the Stratosphere, by William Jones, Princeton University We propose the development of a stratospheric balloon-borne observatory whose diffraction-limited, wide-field imaging capability far exceeds that of HST. The demand for sub arc-second resolution imaging to complement the new large terrestrial programs, such as LSST, will grow exponentially in the next decade. The proposed project will provide it.
The Next Great Observatories: How Can We Get There?, by Jason Tumlinson, Space Telescope Science Institute Astro2020 must grapple with how flagship development should adapt to control costs and support multiple missions. We extend the cost analysis by Bitten et al. (2019) to show that 3 flagship missions costing $21B in total could launch by 2040 with cost-growth containment and an increase to the total budget of NASA Astrophysics of $1 B per year.
Cal X-1: an absolute in-orbit calibrator for current and future X-ray observatories, by Keith Jahoda, NASA GSFC We describe Cal X-1, a SmallSat mission concept to establish X-ray standard candles in the sky, which will enable absolute calibration of the current and future X-ray observatories. It consists of two CubeSats flying in formation, one containing an absolutely calibrated X-ray source and another, 1-2 km away, a simple X-ray telescope.
The Colibrì High-Resolution X-ray Telescope, by Jeremy Heyl, University of British Colubmia We propose a high-time-resolution, high-spectral-resolution X-ray telescope that uses TES as detectors and collector optics to direct the X-rays onto the focal plane, providing a large effective area in a small satellite. The key science driver of the instrument is to study neutron stars and accreting black holes.
Extremely long baseline interferometry with Origins Space Telescope, by Dominic Pesce, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian Situated at L2, the Origins Space Telescope equipped with a heterodyne receiver could function as a node in a VLBI baseline. The unprecedented angular resolution would increase the number of spatially resolvable black holes a millionfold, permit their study across cosmic history, and enable new tests of GR by unveiling photon ring substructure.
The Far-Infrared Astronomy Stratospheric Balloon Facility, by Jorge L. Pineda, Jet Propulsion Laboratory We recommend to the 2020 Decadal Review Committee a cost-effective stratospheric balloon-borne facility observatory offering accommodation interfaces for a wide range of instruments for far-infrared astronomy. It will consist of four identical platforms featuring a 2.5-m class telescopes and will provide up to 4,000 hrs of observing time per year.
FARSIDE: A Low Radio Frequency Interferometric Array on the Lunar Farside, by Jack Burns, University of Colorado Boulder FARSIDE is a Probe-class concept to place a low radio frequency interferometric array on the farside of the Moon. FARSIDE would enable monitoring of the nearest stellar systems in the search for the radio signatures of coronal mass ejections, and would also detect the magnetospheres for the nearest candidate habitable exoplanets.
Managing Flagship Missions to Reduce Cost and Schedule, by Jason Hylan, NASA Flagship missions are complex. This poses management problems as complexity influences risk which, in turn, affects cost and schedule. Managing flagships requires an evolution of current best practices to address the needs of these missions. This WP explores how to leverage lessons learned from previous flagships to better manage future ones.
Sustaining Community-Driven Software for Astronomy in the 2020s, by Erik Tollerud, Space Telescope Science Institute Software is critical to astronomical research. Sharing and sustaining astronomical software has long-term impacts on scientific outcomes. However, support for this has been uneven, creating significant risks. Thus, we highlight changes that will enable a sustainable software sharing system for astronomy and astrophysics in the next decade.
The X-ray Polarization Probe mission concept, by Keith Jahoda, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center The X-ray Polarization Probe is a medium class mission concept to study the accretion flow onto black holes, to use neutron stars as fundamental physics laboratories, and to probe the role of magnetic fields in cosmic particle accelerators. XPP measures linear polarization from 0.2 to 60 keV and provides imaging polarimetry from 2-8 keV.
Making the Case: Principles for Workforce, Education, Public Outreach and Communications (WEPOC), by Gordon Squires, Caltech A group of 20+ astronomy and high-energy physics leaders have been compiling a body of knowledge to 'make the case' for the importance of WEPOC in large science projects, and how WEPOC should be developed and implemented. These include 8 principles and practices we recommend for inclusion in the Astro2020 report.
Preparing for the Discovery of Life Beyond Earth, by Kathryn Denning, York University, Toronto, Canada We address an urgent issue in the state of the profession. Extraterrestrial life may be detected within years or decades, and for the sake of involved scientists and the broader community, substantial and ongoing support is vital for interdisciplinary research (science, social science, humanities) on the social impacts of searches and discovery.
STROBE-X: X-ray Timing and Spectroscopy on Dynamical Timescales from Microseconds to Years, by Paul Ray, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory STROBE-X is a probe-class mission concept, selected for study by NASA, for X-ray spectral timing of compact objects across the mass scale. It combines huge collecting area, high throughput, broad energy coverage, and excellent spectral and temporal resolution in a single facility, enabling a broad portfolio of high-priority astrophysics.
The Legacy of the Great Observatories: Panchromatic Coverage as a Strategic Goal for NASA Astrophysics, by S. Thomas Megeath, University of Toledo Multi-wavelength observations are crucial for understanding astrophysical phenomena and have fueled rapid progress. To maintain continued access to wavelength regimes that are either inaccessible or compromised from the ground, we recommend that NASA establish a strategic goal of maintaining commensurate and concurrent panchromatic coverage.
Better support for collaborations preparing for large-scale projects: the case study of the LSST Science Collaborations, by federica bianco, University of Delaware Through the lens of the LSST Science Collaborations' experience, we advocate for new, improved ways to fund large, complex collaborations as they work in preparation for and on peta-scale surveys. We advocate for the establishment of programs to support research and infrastructure that enables innovative collaborative research on such scales.
Imaging Earth-like Exoplanets with a Small Space Telescope, by Ruslan Belikov, NASA Ames Research Center The aCen AB system represents a particularly attractive target for missions to directly image exoplanets. A potentially habitable planet can in theory be imaged in the system with a telescope as small as 40cm, provided it has a powerful enough starlight suppression system. This would complement and synergise with WFIRST, LUVOIR, and HabEx.
The Future of Maunakea Astronomy, by Douglas Simons, Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope Given the importance of the Maunakea Observatories to astronomy in the 21st century, ensuring a bright future for this billion-dollar research complex has broad impact. This White Paper summarizes challenges and strategies to help ensure renewal of the Maunakea Science Reserve Master Lease, which expires in 2033.
The NOAO Mid-Scale Observatories, by Lori Allen, NOAO We describe present and future capabilities of the Mid-Scale Observatories (MSO) of the new national center merging NOAO, Gemini Observatory and LSST Operations. Recent upgrades have equipped the MSO 4-m class telescopes (Blanco, Mayall, SOAR, WIYN) to perform world-class surveys in diverse areas of astrophysics, from dark energy to exoplanets.
NASA's Focused Starshade Technology Development and its Synergy with Future Mission Concepts, by Kendra Short, Jet Propulsion Lab This white paper describes the focused investments in Starshade Technology that NASA/APD is making through a dedicated technology development activity known as 'Starshade Technology to TRL 5' (S5). The S5 will mature technologies to TRL5 to be ready to infuse starshades into missions concepts studied today or envisioned in the future.
Expanding the Reach of Tau Neutrino Telescopes with the Beamforming Elevated Array for COsmic Neutrinos (BEACON), by Stephanie Wissel, California Polytechnic State University We present a new concept for a radio detector called the Beamforming Elevated Array for COsmic Neutrinos (BEACON) sensitive to tau neutrinos with energies greater than 100 PeV in which a radio interferometer searches for upgoing tau neutrinos from a high elevation mountain.
The Carl Sagan Observatory: A Visionary Space Telescope, by Heidi Hammel, AURA "Are we alone?" has been an enduring human question. The means to answer it is achievable: a space telescope that can study dozens of temperate Earth-like planets around Sun-like stars. This telescope will also revolutionize our knowledge of the Cosmos. Such a facility would be worthy of being called the Carl Sagan Observatory.
ATLAS Probe: Breakthrough Science of Galaxy Evolution, Cosmology, Milky Way, and the Solar System, by Yun Wang, California Institute of Technology ATLAS (Astrophysics Telescope for Large Area Spectroscopy) is a concept for a NASA probe-class space mission that will achieve groundbreaking science in all areas of astrophysics. It has a 1.5m aperture telescope, 0.4 sq deg FoV, R = 1000 slit spectroscopy over 1-4μm, and obtains ~6,000 spectra simultaneously using digital micro-mirror devices.
PICO: Probe of Inflation and Cosmic Origins, by Shaul Hanany, University of Minnesota The Probe of Inflation and Cosmic Origins (PICO) is a proposed probe-scale space mission consisting of an imaging polarimeter operating in frequency bands between 20 and 800 GHz. We describe the science achievable by PICO, which has sensitivity equivalent to more than 3300 Planck missions, the technical implementation, the schedule and cost.
The NANOGrav Program for Gravitational Waves and Fundamental Physics, by Scott Ransom, NRAO We describe the North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves (NANOGrav) and its efforts to directly detect and study gravitational waves and other synergistic physics and astrophysics using radio timing observations of millisecond pulsars.
The Sloan Digital Sky Survey as an Archetypal Mid-Scale Program, by Michael Blanton, New York University We describe the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) as an archetypal mid-scale program, including the technical, scientific, and organizational aspects underpinning its success over the last twenty years. Based on the SDSS experience, we present six recommendations that the funding mechanisms for mid-scale programs should be designed to ensure.
Executive Summary: A Roadmap For Scientific Ballooning 2020-2030, by Peter Gorham, University of Hawaii at Manoa The NASA Balloon Program Analysis Group (PAG) has been tasked by NASA to develop scientific and strategic priorities for NASA's scientific ballooning endeavors through the next decade. Here we summarize the science priorities and draft findings and recommendations of the PAG for the purpose of informing the Astrophysics 2020 Decadal survey.
FOBOS: A Next-Generation Spectroscopic Facility, by Kevin Bundy, UC Observatories FOBOS is a near-term fiber-based facility for the existing 10m Keck II Telescope. It has a uniquely blue-sensitive wavelength range (0.31--1.0 um), R~3500, and high-multiplex (1800 fibers). In the era of panoramic deep imaging, FOBOS will excel at building the deep, spectroscopic reference data sets needed to capitalize on vast imaging surveys.
The Large UV / Optical / Infrared Surveyor (LUVOIR): Telling the Story of Life in the Universe, by Aki Roberge, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center The Large UV/Optical/IR Surveyor (LUVOIR) is a concept for a guest observer-driven observatory that will revolutionize astrophysics, solar system studies, and exoplanet science. This WP summarizes parts of the study Final Report, including science goals, concept designs, key technology needs, development schedule, and project management.
Big Instruments, Large Communities: Data Management in the Decade of the 2020s, by William Gropp, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign We foresee the needs to enable multi-instrument pixel-level science, independent from any one observing program, and for professional methods and skills within the field to understand where computing is going, and to understand the total costs to support this ambitious science, without pre-maturely endorsing a specific technical strategy.
Liger: Next Generation Imager and Spectrograph for Keck Observatory Adaptive Optics, by Shelley Wright, University of California, San Diego We discuss a next-generation adaptive optics-fed integral field spectrograph and imaging camera for Keck Observatory, known as Liger. Liger will enable new science by offering higher spectral resolution (R∼8000-10000), access to shorter wavelengths (0.84 - 2.4 μm), and larger fields of view than any current and future ground- and space-based IFS.
JSP: Joint Survey Processing of LSST/Euclid/WFIRST, by Ranga Ram Chary, Caltech Joint survey processing (JSP) is the pixel level combination of LSST, Euclid, and WFIRST datasets. This white paper highlights the scientific motivation, computational and algorithmic needs to build joint pixel level processing capabilities, which the individual projects by themselves will not be able to support.
State of the Profession: Intensity Interferometry, by David Kieda, University of Utah This paper describes validation tests of Stellar Intensity Interferometry (SII) in the laboratory and SII measurements on nearby stars that have been completed as a technology demonstrator. The paper describes current and future observatories that will advance the impact and increase the instrumental resolution of SII during the upcoming decade.
A Technology Validation Program for near-IR Habitable Exoplanet Imaging with GMT and TMT, by Olivier Guyon, University of Arizona We describe a program to support the development of GMT and TMT instrumentation capable of direct imaging and spectroscopic characterization of potentially habitable exoplanets orbiting nearby stars. A focus of the validation effort is to leverage existing facilities to support on-sky validation of promising new technologies and approaches.
A Great Successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, by Scott Gaudi, The Ohio State University The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) has been the most impactful science-driven mission ever flown by NASA. Here we argue that there is a need for a Great Successor to HST, which can also directly image and characterize Earth analogs orbiting nearby stars. We note that both the HabEx and LUVOIR concept studies are responsive to this need.
In-Space Assembly of a Starshade as an External Occulter for Direct Exoplanet Observations, by John Grunsfeld, Endless Frontier Associates, NASA GSFC-Emeritus The case for space-based telescopic direct imaging in reflected light to spectroscopically characterize planets around Sun-like stars is well established. A starshade as an external occulter has been shown to allow this capability. We present a novel concept for a cost-effective in-space assembled starshade to enable direct imaging spectroscopy.
ULTRA Segment Stability for Space Telescope Coronagraphy, by Matthew East, L3Harris Space and Airborne Systems Industry capabilities are emerging to enable LUVOIR-class space telescope performance and to significantly mitigate cost, schedule and risk. This report establishes the activities and technologies which will advance LUVOIR Wavefront Error (WFE) stability aligned to producing a cost-effective design.
GBT Planetary Radar System, by Amber Bonsall, Green Bank Observatory A transmission radar capability at the 100m Green Bank Telescope would be an excellent complement to existing planetary radar systems at the Arecibo and Goldstone Observatories, meeting growing community need for mono- and bi-static radar. This 35GHz system will provide high spatial resolution, complementing existing lower frequency systems.
CMB-S4 Decadal Survey APC White Paper, by John Carlstrom, University of Chicago We describe the stage 4 cosmic microwave background ground-based experiment CMB-S4.
On the need for synthetic data and robust data simulators in the 2020s, by Molly Peeples, Space Telescope Science Institute / Johns Hopkins University Synthetic data are increasingly required for several purposes, from testing complex measurement methods to predicting model-based observational results to mitigating risk for future observatories by enabling effective pipeline testing. We thus advocate for funding for facilities to provide robust data simulators and publicly archive synthetic data.
Status of Space-based Segmented-Aperture Coronagraphs for Characterizing Exo-Earths Around Sun-Like Stars, by Stuart Shaklan, Jet Propulsion Laboratory We aim to inform Astro2020 of the status of coronagraph technology for use with a space-based segmented and/or partially obscured primary mirror. Our design and modeling study has determined that multiple coronagraph architectures can achieve the necessary performance. Some preliminary observatory requirements appear challenging but achievable.
IDEAS: Immersive Dome Experiences for Accelerating Science, by Jacqueline Faherty, American Museum of Natural History In this white paper we argue that over the next decade the research astronomy community should partner with planetariums to create visualization-based research opportunities for the field. Realizing this vision will require new investments in software and human capital but will lead to major and novel advancements in Astrophysics research.
The CCAT-Prime Submillimeter Observatory, by Herter Terry, Cornell University This white paper describes the Cerro Chajnantor Atacama Telescope-prime (CCAT-prime) which is a new 6-m, off-axis, low-emissivity, large field-of-view submillimeter telescope scheduled for first light in the last quarter of 2021.
Low Strain Mounting Techniques for Lynx X-ray Optics, by Keith Havey, L3Harris Space and Airborne Systems Low strain mounting of the Lynx mirrors is essential to the telescope image quality. Mount strain must be managed during assembly with precision fixturing, environmental control, and knowledge of adhesive cure shrinkage. The large number of segment and modules for Lynx necessitates a time-efficient, deterministic, and high-quality process.
Wavefront Sensing and Control technologies for Exo-Earth imaging, by Laurent Pueyo, STScI This paper demonstrates that WFS&C technologies for Exo-Earth imaging are well within our reach in the next decade. To accomplish this goal we recommend that NASA a) follows a strategic plan based on synergies between ground-based (ExAO) and space-based (technology testbeds) instrumentation, b) continues to fund the WFIRST coronagraph instrument
Pursuing diversity, equity, and inclusion in multimessenger astronomy collaborations over the coming decade, by Ellen Bechtol, Wisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison Large scientific collaborations can play an important role in creating diverse, equitable, and inclusive astronomy and astrophysics communities. The Multimessenger Diversity Network (MDN) is extending the collaborative approach of multimessenger astronomy to develop strategies to support and increase DEI in astronomy and astrophysics.
The Occulting Ozone Observatory (O3) Mission, by Doug Lisman, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology The Occulting Ozone Observatory (O3) mission directly images exoplanets with a wide range of planet size and orbit period, including rocky HZ planets, and can detect atmospheric Rayleigh scattering and ozone with a 16-20m starshade and 1-1.5m telescope. Mission cost is at the low-end of the medium range.
The Next-Generation Radio Neutrino Observatory -- Multi-Messenger Neutrino Astrophysics at Extreme Energies, by Amy Connolly, Ohio State University RNO is the mid-scale discovery instrument designed to make the fi rst observation of neutrinos from the cosmos at extreme energies, with sensitivity well beyond current instrument capabilities. This new observatory will be the largest ground-based neutrino telescope to date, enabling the measurement of neutrinos above 10^16 eV,.
Community Science and Data-Intensive Astronomy Support at the US National Optical Astronomy Observatory, by Adam Bolton, National Optical Astronomy Observatory Research opportunity in modern astronomy is defined by both access to observing facilities and access to data. We describe the NOAO Community Science and Data Center's integrated approach to both modes of access. We recommend that the Decadal Survey endorse a strong program of data services as a critical function of a modern National Observatory.
The need for better tools to design future CMB experiments, by Graça Rocha, JPL/Caltech This white paper addresses key challenges for the design of next-decade Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) experiments and for assessing their capability to extract cosmological information from CMB polarization. We argue that it is critical to develop more robust analysis and simulation tools if any of these experiments is to realize its promise.
A Long-Term Vision for Space-Based Interferometry, by Stephen Rinehart, NASA GSFC A number of important astrophysical questions require observations with angular resolution beyond the capabilities of either existing or proposed facilities. We discuss some of these key science questions and present a potential path to obtaining high angular resolution through the development of space-based interferometers.
The Breakthrough Listen Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, by Vishal Gajjar, University of California, Berkeley In this white paper, we outline the status of the on-going observing campaign with our primary and collaborative observing facilities, as well as planned activities with these instruments over the next few years with the Breakthrough Listen program for the technosignature searches.
Algorithms and Statistical Models forScientific Discovery in the Petabyte Era, by Brian Nord, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory This white paper offers guidance and ideas for how we can evolve our technical and collaborative frameworks to promote efficient algorithmic development and take advantage of opportunities for scientific discovery in the petabyte era.
Observatory Operating Costs and Their Relation to Capital Costs, by Robert Goodrich, GMTO We examine the relationship between operating and construction costs for ground-based observatories. We shown that operating costs are in the range of 5+/- 2% of capital and that the fractional cost of operations declines with increasing capital costs.
The CHARA Michelson Array, by Douglas Gies, Georgia State University The CHARA Michelson Array is an optical/infrared interferometer with kilometer-sized baselines that will build on the successes of the current CHARA Array interferometer. This facility will provide the community with tools to explore stellar surfaces, exoplanets, stellar environments, and AGN cores at at spatial resolution of 100 microarcsec.
State of the Profession: Intensity Interferometry, by David Kieda, University of Utah This paper describes validation tests of Stellar Intensity Interferometry (SII) in the laboratory and SII measurements on nearby stars that have been completed as a technology demonstrator. The paper describes current and future observatories that will advance the impact and increase the instrumental resolution of SII during the upcoming decade.
Building a Field: The Future of Astronomy with Gravitational Waves, by Kelly Holley-Bockelmann, Vanderbilt University and Fisk University Harnessing the sheer discovery potential of GW Astronomy will require bold, deliberate, and sustained efforts to train and develop the requisite workforce. This basic infrastructure is needed as an enabling foundation for research. We outline a set of recommendations to help build a thriving, diverse, and inclusive new field.
Astrobites as a Community-led Model for Education, Science Communication, and Accessibility in Astrophysics, by Gourav Khullar, University of Chicago The Astrobites collaboration outlines how our online education platform eases the transition into astronomy research and promotes inclusive professional development opportunities. We additionally offer recommendations for how the astronomy community can reduce barriers to entry to astronomy research in the coming decade.
STROBE-X: X-ray Timing and Spectroscopy on Dynamical Timescales from Microseconds to Years, by Paul Ray, Naval Research Laboratory STROBE-X is a probe-class mission concept, selected for study by NASA, for X-ray spectral timing of compact objects across the mass scale. It combines huge collecting area, high throughput, broad energy coverage, and excellent spectral and temporal resolution in a single facility, enabling a broad portfolio of high-priority astrophysics.
Extreme Precision Radial Velocity Working Group, by Scott Gaudi, The Ohio State University NASA and NSF are jointly commissioning a community-based 'Extreme Precision Radial Velocity (EPRV) working Group' to develop a blueprint for a strategy for an EPRV initiative. The purpose of this white paper is to describe the (EPRV) Working Group, whose primary responsibility is to lay out the blueprint mentioned above.
Realizing the potential of astrostatistics and astroinformatics, by Gwendolyn Eadie, University of Washington This White Paper highlights the growth of astrostatistics and astroinformatics in astronomy, identifies key issues hampering the maturation of these new subfields, and makes recommendations for structural improvements at different levels that, if acted upon, will make significant positive impacts across astronomy.
Exo-C: A Dedicated Probe-scale Space Mission for Coronagraphic Imaging and Spectroscopy of Exoplanetary Systems, by Karl Stapelfeldt, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology Exo-C is a mission concept for a probe-scale space coronagraph mission for direct imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets and disks in reflected light. Under the sponsorship of NASA HQ, a community STDT and JPL engineering team produced a 180 page study report detailing its science capability, system design, technology needs, cost, and schedule.
Studying black holes on horizon scales with space-VLBI, by Michael Johnson, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) recently produced the first horizon-scale image of a supermassive black hole. Expanding the array to include a 3-meter space telescope operating at >200 GHz enables mass measurements of many black holes, movies of black hole accretion flows, and new tests of general relativity that are impossible from the ground.
GMagAO-X: extreme adaptive optics & coronagraphy for GMT at first light, by Jared Males, University of Arizona We describe plans for an ``extreme'' adaptive optics (ExAO) system for the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT). Since it is based on existing proven technology, GMagAO-X can be available at, or shortly-after, first light of the GMT, allowing the observatory to deliver groundbreaking exoplanet science almost immediately.
Astro2020 must issue actionable recommendations regarding diversity, inclusion, and harassment, by Jane Rigby, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Astro2010 failed to issue recommendations on diversity and inclusion. Astro2020 cannot make the same mistake. Findings can be ignored by funding agencies; recommendations cannot. Astro2020 should play a key role, by producing actionable recommendations to support diversity and inclusion and stop harassment within astronomy.
Towards a Spectroscopic Survey Roadmap for the 2020s and Beyond, by Adam Bolton, National Optical Astronomy Observatory Wide-field survey spectroscopy is essential to realizing the astrophysics potential of LSST and other imaging surveys. We review the strong case for this capability, summarize available options to meet the need, and provide strategic recommendations to enable national scientific progress and leadership in this area in the coming decade.
A Roadmap for Astrophysics and Cosmology with High-Redshift 21 cm Intensity Mapping, by Aaron Parsons, University of California, Berkeley We lay out a US roadmap for high-redshift 21 cm cosmology (30 <= z <6) in the 2020s that begins with the currently-funded HERA and MWA Phase II projects and advances through the decade with a coordinated program of technology development to enable next-generation, mid-scale 21 cm arrays to be proposed late in the decade.
Astronomy Faculty Development at Minority-Serving Institutions, by Andrew Baker, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey This white paper proposes to increase the number of underrepresented minority (URM) students who pursue graduate study in astronomy, by establishing a program to support and incentivize the hiring of astronomy faculty at minority-serving institutions (MSIs), where large fractions of URM science and engineering majors earn their bachelor's degrees.
Star Watch Astrometry Probe, by Philip Horzempa, LeMoyne College The Star Watch is an extreme-precision astrometry (0.1 - 1.0 uas) Probe-class mission. Its sole science instrument is a Michelson interferometer capable of this precision. It will allow detection of Earth Analogs in nearby star systems.
Space based gravitational wave astronomy beyond LISA, by Guido Mueller, University of Florida This white paper surveys the science, technology and mission concepts for a gravitational wave mission beyond LISA. The proposed small scale activity is a technology development program that would support a range of concepts and a mission concept study to choose a specific mission concept for Astro2030.
Astro2020 Activities and Projects White Paper: Arecibo Observatory in the Next Decade, by Anish Roshi, Arecibo Observatory The White Paper describes Arecibo Observatory's plan for the next generation of upgrades to the Arecibo telescope in order to keep this national facility in the forefront of research in radio astronomy while maintaining its dominance in radar studies of near-Earth asteroids, planets and satellites.
All-sky Medium Energy Gamma-ray Observatory: Exploring the Extreme Multimessenger Universe, by Julie McEnery, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center The All-sky Medium Energy Gamma-ray Observatory (AMEGO) is a probe class mission concept that will provide essential contributions to multimessenger astrophysics in the late 2020s and beyond. AMEGO combines high sensitivity in the 200 keV to 10 GeV energy range with a wide field of view, good spectral resolution, and polarization sensitivity.
Relaxing Stability Requirements on Future Exoplanet Coronagraphic Imaging Missions, by N Jeremy Kasdin, University of San Francisco Proposed coronagraph designs require wavefront stability in the 10s of pm. In this white paper we describe a new algorithmic approach that significantly relaxes requirements, up to 2 orders of magnitude, on observatory stability. This brings them into the range of JWST segment drift requirements, suggesting that no new may be necessary.
Astrobiology as a Grand Challenge for NASA, by Shawn Domagal-Goldman, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Here, we explain how NASA's next Grand Challenge could be 'The Search for Life Beyond Earth,' with a flagship-scale mission in Astrophysics as its centerpiece.
Active Telescopes for Future Space Astronomy Missions, by Charles Lawrence, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology This paper describes cryogenic-capable, active space telescope technologies, to enable diffraction limited performance from UV to mid-IR wavelengths.
Non-Contact Vibration Isolation and Precision Pointing for Large Optical Telescopes, by Alison Nordt, Lockheed Martin Disturbance Free Payload technology has been developed by Lockheed Martin Space that enables highly stable observations over long durations through physical separation of an observatory and its spacecraft. A plan is presented to advance DFP technology from TRL 4 to TRL 6 to enable missions like LUVOIR.
Preparing an Inclusive Astronomy Community through Effective Professional Development, by Nicholas McConnell, Institute for Scientist & Engineer Educators (ISEE), University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) This paper describes how professional development of astronomy community members can support equitable and inclusive professional practices (e.g., leading teams, mentoring, teaching). We describe characteristics of effective professional development, that yield long-term implementation of best practices.
The Planetary Systems Imager for TMT, by Michael Fitzgerald, University of California Los Angeles The Planetary Systems Imager for the Thirty Meter Telescope is a modular instrument suite centered on a high-performance adaptive optics system that enables a broad range of high-contrast sensing and characterization capabilities. It will address major questions in the formation and evolution of planetary systems relevant in the ELT era.
Making the Case for Visualization, by Robert Hurt, California Institute of Technology Visual representation of information is a fundamental tool for advancing our understanding of science. It enables the research community to extract new knowledge from complex datasets, and plays a vital role in communicating new results to the public. We establish the case for support of astronomy visualization and its community of practice.
Maintaining Capabilities in CCD Production for the Astronomy Community, by Kyle Dawson, University of Utah Critical to advancing astronomy is the ability to partner with commercial foundries to produce custom devices. Teledyne DALSA has been the primary industrial partner, but will not continuing in this role. We recommend pursuit of a new commercial partner in CCD fabrication to maintain capabilities in custom CCD design for astronomy applications.Â
NANOGrav Education and Outreach: Growing a Diverse and Inclusive Collaboration for Low-Frequency Gravitational Wave Astronomy, by Timothy Dolch, Hillsdale College Gravitational wave (GW) astrophysics requires a growing pool of students and researchers with unique, interdisciplinary skills. It also offers an opportunity to build a diverse, inclusive community. We describe the efforts of NANOGrav to foster such growth by involving students at all levels in GW astrophysics with pulsar timing arrays.
The DSA-2000 - A Radio Survey Camera, by Gregg Hallinan, California Institute of Technology We present the DSA-2000: a world-leading radio survey telescope and multi-messenger discovery engine. The array will be the first true radio camera, outputting science-ready image data over the 0.7-2 GHz frequency range with a spatial resolution of 3.5 arcseconds.
Studying Black Holes on Horizon Scales with VLBI Ground Arrays, by Sheperd Doeleman, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian High-resolution imaging of supermassive black holes is now possible, with new applications to testing general relativity and horizon-scale accretion and relativistic jet formation processes. Over the next decade, enhancement of the current EHT will deliver black hole movies, allowing real-time study of black holes and their impact on the Universe.
TSO: A nUV-MidIR Rapid-Response 1.3-1.5m telescope for TDA at L2, by Jonathan Grindlay, Harvard/CfA The Time domain Spectroscopic Observatory (TSO) is essential for the long-awaited study of high redshift Gamma-Ray Bursts as probes of the Epoch of Reionization back to the epoch of Pop III Stars. ELTs on ground suffer weather and OH sky backgrounds and JWST cannot slew quickly over full sky. TSO, and 4pi X-ray imaging, will transform all of TDA.
Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Space Policy and Law, by Charles Mudd, Mudd Law An overview of astronomy, astrophysics, and space public policy and legal issues that should be considered as part of the Astro2020 Decadal Survey with a focus on a domestic and international scale to effectuate the longer term aspirations and objectives of the Astro2020 process.
Entering into the Wide Field Adaptive Optics Era in the Northern Hemisphere, by Gaetano Sivo, Gemini Observatory Gemini Observatory plans to revitalize its AO facility at Gemini North for the benefit of the US and international user community, including a funded MCAO system now in development. Our Strategic Plan calls for the development of a GLAO system enabled by an Adaptive Secondary Mirror. We discuss our plans, progress, and funding outlook.
The Landscape for Directly Characterizing Potentially Habitable \& Inhabited Planets in the Late 2020s and Beyond, by Courtney Dressing, University of California, Berkeley We review the landscape for directly characterizing potentially Earth-like planets at UV, optical, and near-IR wavelengths in the late 2020s and beyond. We discuss both ground- and space-based capabilities; ground-based observations are preferred for planets orbiting nearby cool dwarfs, while space is ideal for planets orbiting Sun-like stars.
Enabling Terminal Master's Degrees as a Step Towards a Ph.D., by Michael Lund, Caltech/IPAC-NExScI We discuss the need for gathering more data about graduate programs to understand the different pathways that students take to earning a Ph.D., and the students that choose each path. We also discuss the challenges facing students entering Ph.D. programs with a master's degree and provide some suggestions to help these students reach their goals.
Space-Based Laser Guide Star Mission to Enable Ground and Space Telescope Observations of Faint Objects, by Kerri Cahoy, MIT We present a Laser Guide Star small satellite to formation fly with a large space observatory or with a ground telescope that uses AO. We describe deployment of 18 Laser Guide Stars to L2 to assist LUVOIR. We present a design reference mission for a laser guide star satellite in GEO with 6.5+ meter ground telescopes with AO.
University-Based Radio Astronomy, by Jens Kauffmann, Haystack Observatory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Funding for radio observatories at universities has decreased substantially since 2013. This limits the ability of the US-based community to train junior astronomers, perform astrophysical research, and build instruments. Changes to the MSIP scheme, embedding of university groups in major projects, and a new NSF center could address these issues.
A Roadmap for Efficient Direct Imaging with Large Radio Interferometer Arrays, by Nithyanandan Thyagarajan, National Radio Astronomy Observatory Future radio arrays will have extremely demanding compute requirements. We present a technology development roadmap for direct imaging correlators which have the potential to alleviate harsh scaling. Overcoming technical challenges and generalizing algorithms will be essential to enable transformation science from next generation instruments.
Panoramic SETI: An all-sky fast time-domain observatory, by Shelley Wright, UC San Diego We are designing an optical and near-infrared observatory designed to greatly enlarge the current SETI phase space. The Pulsed All-sky Near-infrared Optical SETI (PANOSETI) observatory will be a dedicated SETI facility that aims to increase sky area searched, wavelengths covered, number of stellar systems observed, and duration of time monitored.
Support the Python Numerical Core, by Joseph Harrington, University of Central Florida Open-source software (OSS) promotes reproducibility and efficiency in science. The most popular OSS framework in astrophysics is the Python Numerical Core (PNC), including the NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib, Pandas, and Scikit-learn packages. With over 5,000,000 users, these projects have grown beyond the volunteer scale and require financial support.
The Importance of Supporting Astronomy Education Research, Curriculum Reform, and Professional Development in Astronomy Education, by Kim Coble, San Francisco State University We recommend that funding agencies support excellence and equity in astronomy education at all levels by: - Funding astronomy education research - Funding curriculum development, evaluation, dissemination, adoption and implementation - Funding and incentivizing professional development for astronomers engaged in teaching, outreach and mentoring
HabEx Primary Mirror White Paper, by Conrad Wells, L3Harris Space and Airborne Systems L3Harris Corporation is providing this white paper on the fabrication and test of the HabEx primary mirror. This mirror is a 4 meter off-axis monolith with challenging surface figure requirements. The development challenges to achieving the surface figure error (SFE) include smoothing processes, mirror metrology accuracy, and 1-G to 0-G shift.
Next Generation LSST Science, by Saurabh Jha, Rutgers University LSST can advance scientific frontiers beyond its groundbreaking 10-year survey. Here we explore opportunities for extended operations with proposal-based observing strategies, new filters, or transformed instrumentation. We recommend the development of a mid-decade community- and science-driven process to define next-generation LSST capabilities.
Enabling the next generation of scientific discoveries by embracing photonic technologies, by Nemanja Jovanovic, California Institute of Technology The goal of this white paper is to draw attention to key photonic technology developments over the past two decades and demonstrate there is momentum in this arena. We outline where the most critical efforts should be focused over the coming decade in order to move towards realizing a fully photonic instrument for a relatively small investment.
Theoretical Astrophysics 2020-2030, by Juna Kollmeier, Carnegie Institution for Science We present a vision for support for theoretical astrophysics in the 2020-2030 timeframe. We argue that the training and nurturing of the next generation of theorists is crucial to maintaining a vibrant field and suggest specific programs to ensure this.
Adopting Dual-Anonymous Practices in the Reviews for Resource Allocation in Astronomy, by Louis-Gregory Strolger, Space Telescope Science Institute STSCI implemented a dual-anonymous review process. We discuss motivations for, and changes made to the time-allocation reviews, and present preliminary results and lessons learned. We recommend other agencies and organizations to consider adopting similar processes in the peer-reviews for telescope time and other resource allocation.
Future Uses of the LSST Facility: Input from the LSST Project Science Team, by Steven Kahn, Stanford University We discuss future uses of the LSST facility after the planned 10-year survey is complete. LSST will profoundly affect the scientific landscape, and it is likely that unexpected discoveries may drive its future scientific program. We discuss various options that could be considered for an extended LSST mission beyond ten years.
SDSS-V Pioneering Panoptic Spectroscopy, by Juna Kollmeier, Carnegie Institution for Science This white paper presents the case for SDSS-V. SDSS-V is an unprecedented all-sky spectroscopic survey of over six million objects. It is designed to decode the history of the Milky Way galaxy, trace the emergence of the chemical elements, reveal the inner workings of galaxies and their stars, and investigate the origin of planets.
On the AAS, by Kevin Marvel, American Astronomical Society A description of the American Astronomical Society, its function and operation.
Training the Next Generation of OIR Instrumentalists, by Jessica Lu, UC Berkeley We present a white paper on the state of professional development and education in adaptive optics (AO) and, more broadly, optical and infrared instrumentation in the US. Specifically, we address two factors (1) a shortage of AO instrumentalists and (2) a lack of diversity in optical/infrared (OIR) instrumentation overall.
Considerations, Coordination, and Sharing of Numerical Simulations for Astrophysics, by Alina Kiessling, Jet Propulsion Laboratory / California Institute of Technology The purpose of this white paper is to summarize collaborative cosmological simulation efforts that are essential to the success of the upcoming Stage 4 cosmological surveys, particularly LSST, WFIRST, and Euclid. Funding for these efforts across surveys (and therefore Agencies) is sparse, so new lines of investment are necessary.
An Old/New Approach to Space Flight Missions for Astrophysics: Spiral Development, by Charles Lillie, Lillie Consulting LLC ASTRO2020 State of the Profession Submission regarding risk tolerant iterative development of future large space telescopes with in-orbit assembly and servicing in several stages to evolve and enhance their capability in order to continue using the latest technology to maintain cutting-edge observations for current scientific questions for decades
SmallSats for Astrophysics, by DAVID ARDILA, Jet Propulsion Laboratory The SmallSat industry is booming and for some years now, NASA Astrophysics has solicited SmallSat missions. However, this has resulted in only one launched SmallSat to date. Our primary suggestion is that NASA decouples science and technology for SmallSats by creating a technology-based SmallSat AO, modeled after the Earth Sciences InVEST call.
Agile Astophysics Missions, by Philip Horzempa, LeMoyne College A high-cadence approach for NASA's Astrophysics directorate is proposed. This is the Fast, Smart, Affordable (FSA) philosophy. It is meant to get as many observatories in orbit, as soon as possible. This will be done by pursuing low mass, less-complicated missions.
Orbiting Configurable Artificial Star (ORCAS) for Visible Adaptive Optics from the Ground, by Eliad Peretz, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Small scale space mission to enabling Adaptive Optics (AO) for a variety of targets across the sky at visible wavelengths for a range of telescopes on the ground that could transform many key areas in astronomy. Establish through a reformulation study how such advances could be achieved and accommodated by astrophysics science communities.
Astro 2020 State of the Profession: Astrophotonics White Paper, by Pradip Gatkine, University of Maryland College Park The purpose of this white paper is to summarize the current landscape of astrophotonic devices and their scientific impact, highlight the key issues, and outline specific technological and organizational approaches to address these issues in the coming decade and thereby enable new discoveries as we embark on the era of extremely large telescopes.
LiteBIRD: an all-sky cosmic microwave background probe of inflation, by Adrian Lee, University of California, Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab The Litebird mission will map polarized fluctuations in the cosmic microwave background (CMB) to search for the signature of gravitational waves from inflation, potentially opening a window on the Universe a fraction of a second after the Big Bang.
Enabling and Enhancing Astrophysical Observations with Autonomous Systems, by Rashied Amini, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory The impact of autonomous systems on astrophysics can be just as revolutionary as in our daily lives. This paper includes the following so that the astrophysics community can realize the benefits of autonomous systems: description of autonomous systems with examples; enabled and enhanced observations; Adoption gaps; suggested recommendations.
Neutrino astronomy with the next generation IceCube Neutrino Observatory, by Darren Grant, Michigan State University We discuss the IceCube Neutrino Observatory, the on-going construction of the IceCube Upgrade, and plans for the future IceCube-Gen2 facility, which includes an extended deep-ice optical array, an ultra-high-energy radio array, and a surface detector array.
Star Watch Astrometry Probe, by Philip Horzempa, LeMoyne College Star Watch is an extreme-precision astrometry mission (0.1 - 1.0 uas). The sole science instrument is an optical interferometer with 50cm collecting apertures and a 6 meter baseline. It will use flight-quality hardware, inherited from the SIM project, tested at high levels of integration, retiring most technical risk and achieving TRL-6.
The Simons Observatory, by Adrian Lee, University of California, Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab The Simons Observatory (SO) is a ground-based cosmic microwave background (CMB) experiment sited on Cerro Toco in the Atacama Desert in Chile that promises to provide breakthrough discoveries in fundamental physics, cosmology, and astrophysics.