Dear Colleague,
NASA is now soliciting applications and nominations for individuals affiliated with U.S. institutions to participate in the ESA Science Study Team for The "Advanced Telescope for High-ENergy Astrophysics" (ATHENA).
Background: In November 2013, ESA selected the "Hot and Energetic Universe" as the theme of the second large mission (L2) in its Cosmic Vision program. The theme is to be addressed by an X-ray Observatory led by ESA, to be launched in 2028. On June 27, ESA announced that the Advanced Telescope for High Energy Astrophysics, ATHENA, is the mission concept to fulfill this theme. ESA will assemble a Science Study Team (SST) to initiate the required study activities during the Assessment Phase of the ATHENA concept.
NASA will be working with ESA to define the possible NASA contribution to this ESA-led X-ray mission. ESA anticipates appointing a NASA-nominated and ESA-selected scientist affiliated with a U.S. institution to be a member of the ATHENA SST.
Nomination Letters: Applications and nominations to serve as NASA-nominated member of the SST should consist of a cover letter including a statement of expertise pertinent to serving on the SST, a one-page Curriculum Vitae including publications, and a statement of availability and commitment to serve on the ATHENA SST during its ~2 year lifetime. Applications and nominations will be accepted for candidates affiliated with U.S. institutions.
Applications are due Monday, July 7, 2014 at 5 pm local time. Only email applications of a single PDF file will be accepted. Please submit your application via email to Dr. M. Garcia, michael.r.garcia@nasa.gov.
NASA will provide funding for travel to the ATHENA SST meetings.
The applications will be reviewed at NASA Headquarters. The Astrophysics Division Director will select the scientist for nomination to ESA.
NASA Point of Contact:
Dr. Michael Garcia
NASA ATHENA Program Scientist
Telephone: 202-358-1053
E-mail: michael.r.garcia@nasa.gov