The goal of the X-ray Science Interest Group (XR SIG) is to provide quantitative metrics and assessments to NASA in regard to future X-ray observatories. Specifically, the XR SIG will
Track and analyze evolving science goals and requirements in X-ray astronomy, especially as current "hot" topics evolve.
Provide an active communication forum for X-ray astrophysics (e.g., via town hall meetings at venues such as AAS and APS meetings).
Support mission studies and concept development for future X-ray observatories.
Analyze technology development and prioritization plans with respect to redefined science goals and the evolution of mission concepts (i.e., the XR SIG will aid the PhysPAG in analyzing technology needs).
The XR SIG is open to all members of the community.
If you are interested in contributing to the work of the XR SIG, please subscribe using the link below. For other inquiries, e-mail co-Chairs Grant Tremblay (Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory) at grant.tremblay@cfa.harvard.edu, David Pooley (Trinity University) at dpooley@trinity.edu, Kristin Madsen (NASA/GSFC) at kmadsen@umbc.edu, and Chien-Ting Chen (USRA/MSFC) at ctchen@usra.edu.
NASA Missions Study What May Be a 1-In-10,000-Year Gamma-ray Burst
On Sunday, Oct. 9, 2022, a pulse of intense radiation swept through the solar system so exceptional that astronomers quickly dubbed it the BOAT – the brightest of all time. The source was a gamma-ray burst (GRB), the most powerful class of explosions in the universe. Read more.
