XRISM Key Program Call for Proposals; Proposals Due 3 December 2026

This weekend, we celebrated 3 years since the launch of the X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM). Observations to date have yielded groundbreaking results across a wide range of topics—including the formation of large-scale cosmic structures, the co-evolution of galaxies and supermassive black holes, and plasma physics—while also highlighting new scientific questions through numerous unexpected discoveries. Building on these achievements and insights, the XRISM project announces the launch of Key Programs, and invites proposals from researchers worldwide.

The aim of Key Programs is to generate legacy data and scientific results of broad value to the astronomical community through the execution of strategic, large-scale observation programs. Observations for the first Key Programs are scheduled to begin in June 2027, with an allocation of approximately 3 Ms of observing time. The proposal submission deadline is 4 December 2026, at 8:59a Japan Standard Time (3 December 2026 at 6:59p Eastern, 3:59p Pacific). Please note that data obtained through Key Program observations will be made publicly available to the community without an exclusive access period.

For details regarding the program, application guidelines, and updated science objectives, please refer to the Call for Proposals, found on the Key Program webpage. 

News Straight to Your Inbox

Subscribe to your community email news list

We will never share your email address.

Privacy Policy

Sign Up