The AXIS mission seeks to explore the origins of primordial black holes from the early universe, investigating their formation and influence on galaxy evolution. It will also study explosive phenomena such as stellar collapses and mergers, alongside examining the activity of stars in nearby systems to evaluate conditions for potential habitability. "This mission presents a unique opportunity to delve into fundamental astrophysical questions," said Haggard, a physics professor at the Trottier Space Institute.
AXIS is one of two mission concepts chosen for further evaluation under NASA's Probe Explorers program, which focuses on X-ray and far-infrared astronomy.
The mission team will receive $5 million over the next year to refine its proposal. Haggard's expertise in black holes and multi-messenger astrophysics will play a pivotal role in shaping the mission's scientific objectives. As co-chair of the AXIS Time-Domain and Multi-Messenger Science Working Group, Haggard will lead efforts to detect electromagnetic counterparts of phenomena such as binary neutron star mergers, fast radio bursts, and fast X-ray transients.
NASA plans to make its final mission selection in 2026. If AXIS is chosen, the team will develop cutting-edge X-ray imaging technology to observe emissions from astrophysical sources like black holes and supernovae, aiming for a 2032 launch.
The AXIS mission is expected to significantly surpass the sensitivity of NASA's current Chandra X-ray Observatory, enabling it to observe high-energy processes in unprecedented detail. This advanced capability will provide new insights into galaxy formation and the behavior of early black holes.
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