Our quest to understand how the universe works starts with the study of the very basic building blocks of our existence - matter, energy, space, and time - and how they behave under the extreme physical conditions that characterize the infant and evolving Universe. The Physics of the Cosmos (PhysCOS) program incorporates cosmology, high-energy astrophysics, and fundamental physics projects aimed at addressing directly central questions about the nature of complex astrophysical phenomena such as black holes, neutron stars, dark energy, and gravitational waves. By utilizing a fleet of space-based missions operating across the whole electromagnetic spectrum, PhysCOS ultimate, overarching goal is to learn about the origin and ultimate destiny of the cosmos.
In order to understand how the universe has changed from its initial simple state following the Big Bang into the magnificent universe we see as we look at the night sky, we must understand how stars, galaxies and planets are formed over time. The universe is comprised of mostly hydrogen and helium. In fact, these two elements make up 98% of the visible matter in the universe. Nevertheless, our world and everything it contains–even life itself–is possible only because of the existence of heavier elements such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, silicon, iron, and many, many others.
The Exoplanet Exploration Program (ExEP) is responsible for implementing NASA’s plans for the discovery and understanding of planetary systems around nearby stars. ExEP serves the science community and NASA by acting a as focal point for exoplanet science and technology, and by the integration of cohesive strategies for future discoveries. The Program in depth explains the motivations and activities of the Program in more detail.
Habitable Worlds Observatory/ formerly GOMAP
The Habitable Worlds Observatory is a large infrared/optical/ultraviolet space telescope recommended by the National Academies’ Pathways to Discovery in Astronomy and Astrophysics for the 2020s. It would be the first telescope designed specifically to search for signs of life on planets orbiting other stars. NASA is further prioritizing its long-running search for life in the universe and laying the groundwork for its next flagship astrophysics mission after the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope (slated to launch by May 2027). This observatory would simultaneously provide powerful capabilities for transformational astrophysics discoveries, from our cosmic backyard of the solar system to the distant universe and everything in between.
Research Competitions
ADAP: NASA annually solicits proposals for the Astrophysics Data Analysis Program (ADAP) under Appendix D.2 of the omnibus ROSES NRA. In an effort to maintain a vibrant research program, we are seeking to expand our database of prospective ADAP reviewers to more fully reflect the diversity of the astronomical community by offering this opportunity for interested individuals to volunteer for future service at an ADAP review.
Pioneers Program: The Pioneers Program is a new program started in 2020 which is intended to do compelling astrophysics science at a lower cost using smaller hardware than missions in the Explorers Program. Missions will include SmallSats, major Balloon payloads, and modest payloads attached to the International Space Station with a $20M cost cap.
ROSES: NASA leads the nation on a great journey of discovery, seeking new knowledge and understanding of our planet Earth, our Sun and solar system, and the universe out to its farthest reaches and back to its earliest moments of existence. NASA recognizes the scientists and engineers who utilize science data, are at the center of it all.
XRP: The Exoplanets Research Program (XRP) element solicits basic research proposals to conduct scientific investigations that significantly improve our understanding of exoplanets and exoplanet formation. This program element is cross-divisional and jointly managed by four of the Divisions within NASA’s Science Mission Directorate: Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Heliophysics, and Earth Science.
ATP: The Astrophysics Theory Program (ATP) supports theoretical investigations or modeling of the astrophysical phenomena targeted by past, current, or future NASA astrophysics space missions.
