NASA Advances $1.2 Billion PRIMA Telescope to Phase B as First Probe Explorer Mission
Updated
Updated · NASA · Sep 25
NASA Advances $1.2 Billion PRIMA Telescope to Phase B as First Probe Explorer Mission
3 articles · Updated · NASA · Sep 25
Summary
PRIMA moved into Phase B, sending NASA’s new far-infrared observatory into preliminary design and technology development ahead of a targeted 2033 launch.
The mission still faces a confirmation review before Phase C implementation; if approved, project costs are capped at $1.2 billion, excluding launch and other non-project expenses.
With a 5.9-foot telescope, PRIMA will survey the universe in far-infrared light, filling the gap between observatories such as James Webb and radio telescopes.
NASA said the mission was chosen after concept studies were judged on scientific merit, cost and schedule feasibility, and technology value, following a 2020 Decadal Survey call for a new Probe Explorer class.
Jet Propulsion Laboratory will manage PRIMA with support from Goddard and Marshall, plus international contributions from agencies including CNES, ASI, DLR, CSA, JAXA, KASI/KASA and the UK Space Agency.