Precursors to Pathways: Science Enabling NASA Astrophysics Future Great Observatories

This series of workshop solicits broad community input that will inform the creation of a new ​NASA ROSES funding element, with proposals due later in 2022, and provides opportunities for the community to engage with each other and NASA on potential proposal ideas.

Precursor Science Workshop I

When: 20-22 April 2022

This workshop solicits broad community input that will inform the creation of a new ​NASA ROSES funding element, with proposals due later in 2022. This Precursor Science element support researchers’, including early career researchers', science investigations that will reduce future Great Observatory mission risk and inform mission designs and trades when those activities begin. All three Great Observatory concepts identified in the Astro2020 Decadal Survey Report are in the scope of this activity. These precursor science investigations may include, but are not limited to, theoretical studies, laboratory astrophysics experiments, archival research, and observational investigations.

Precursor Science Workshop II

When: 11-13 October 2022

This second workshop on Precursor Science will continue the dialog initiated during the first workshop in April 2022. As before, community discussions will inform the creation of a new ​NASA ROSES funding solicitation, with proposals due later in 2022. The workshop will also provide opportunities for community members to engage with each other and NASA on potential ideas for precursor science investigations in preparation for submitting proposals.