This amendment establishes a new program element in Appendix D.12 entitled “SPICA Science Investigation Concept Studies.” The Astrophysics Division of the Science Mission Directorate (SMD) is soliciting science investigation concept studies that could be realized with the JAXA/ISAS Space Infrared Telescope for Cosmology and Astrophysics (SPICA) mission. NASA is considering partnering with JAXA on their SPICA mission platform. This mission seeks to take the next step in investigating the mid (> 5 micrometers) through far (~400 micrometers) infrared portion of the spectrum to observe many astrophysical phenomena from distant galaxies to star and planet forming systems in our own Galaxy. SPICA will use a cooled telescope (3.5 m diameter primary, ~5 K) to achieve sensitivities currently inaccessible to existing facilities operating over this wavelength range (SOFIA, Herschel). The planned observatory would have a suite of instruments, both imaging and spectroscopic. NASA will accept proposals for concept studies of science investigations that would develop and use scientific instrumentation capable of achieving the spectroscopic goals of SPICA discussed below. Details about the SPICA mission may be found at http://www.ir.isas.jaxa.jp/SPICA/h2l2_spie/h2l2.html.
Notices of Intent to propose are due September 2, 2009, and proposals are due November 2, 2009.
View the official ROSES program element from NSPIRES.
Further information about the SPICA program element is available from Dr. Eric P. Smith, Astrophysics Division, Science Mission Directorate at (202) 358-2439 or email Eric Smith at nasa.gov.