NASA works with Sussex scientists in bid to unlock ‘secrets of the universe’

Scientists from Sussex are working with NASA to help unlock "the secrets of the universe". A study involving University of Sussex scientists is being considered by the American space agency for a space mission which hopes to explain the origins and growth of planets, supermassive black holes, stars and cosmic dust. NASA selected two proposals out of a possible eight to conduct a 12-month mission concept study before one will be chosen by NASA to become a $ 1 billion space probe mission, launching in 2032.

Each of the proposals will receive $ 5 million to conduct the research. The Probe far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics (PRIMA) is a proposal for an observatory that will feature a 1.8-metre telescope capable of studying far-infrared (FIR) wavelengths to ‘unveil our cosmic origins’.

Scientists believe it could answer questions about astronomical processes that are happening at lower temperatures and hence study the origins and growth of planets, supermassive black holes, stars and cosmic dust. PRIMA is engaging with a UK consortium including researchers from the University of Sussex, Cardiff University, Imperial College, RAL-Space, Imperial College, University of Oxford, University of Leicester and University College London. Professor Seb Oliver, deputy pro vice chancellor of research and professor of astrophysics at the University of Sussex led the UK engagement, funded by the UK Space Agency, with three concepts that were being proposed.

He is now leading the UK consor.