Physics of the Cosmos
Exploring fundamental questions regarding the physical forces of the universe

The Cosmic Pathfinders Program

Cosmic Pathfinder Activities

Cosmic Chatter

Cosmic Chatter is a series of regularly scheduled, virtual/online colloquia aimed at an earlycareer science audience. These events will feature prepared remarks from an invited speaker as well as time for discussion and programmatic announcements. Presentation topics will consist of a combination of astrophysics research, as well as professional development topics relevant to this early-career audience. Examples of professional development topics include dealing with imposter syndrome, and how to communicate science effectively. The series will run during a fall term (September – December) and a spring term (January - May). Events will be ninety minutes duration, and will be scheduled monthly. Events will be managed and run by the Program Office, in consultation with student leadership on presenters and topics.

Hack-a-thons

Furthermore, a unique aspect to the activities of the program will be technical hack-a-thons that offer participants the opportunity to learn relevant tools and techniques for analyzing NASA mission & archival datasets.

Professional Societies

Cosmic Pathfinders will maintain a presence at professional society events that are supported by the Cosmic Origins Program Office. Notably, these societies include the American Astronomical Society (AAS), National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP), American Physical Society (APS), Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), and other societal organizations that regularly interface with NASA.

Student Chapters

Members of the program who are at the same university may self-organize into student chapters. Such groups further galvanize the engagement of students with NASA astrophysics. Chapters are modeled after similar campus organizations such as the Society of Physics Students. Chapters may host regular meetings to discuss relevant prevailing academic and professional issues and focus on developing essential scientific, mathematical, and interdisciplinary skills. They present a unique opportunity for students to connect with a national network of astronomers, astrophysicists, and space scientists, and foster a sense of belonging within the larger scientific community.

News
18 October 2024
NASA Astrophysics Virtual Town Hall on 23 October 2024
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ROSES-24: D.19 Habitable Worlds Observatory System Technology Demonstrations and Mission Architecture Studies DRAFT Text Released for Community Comment
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Call for Hubble Cycle 32 Bridge Programs
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ROSES-24: D.9 NuSTAR Due Date Moved up to 29 January 2025, and Other Changes
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ROSES-24: Changes for 2 CFR 200 Update
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