The proposed Canadian led Cosmological Superior Survey Telescope for Optical and uv Analysis, generally referred to by its acronym CASTOR, whereas not in limbo, is in want of some well timed consideration by choice makers in authorities. This in response to a current replace from the Canadian Astronomical Society (CASCA).
The Part 0 examine by Honeywell was accomplished in mid-2023. And whereas elements of the venture are transferring ahead, in its current fall replace, CASCA acknowledged that “the instant, pressing want is for a mission-defining Part A examine that would come with formal agreements with worldwide companions who await this pivotal subsequent step.”
The proposed CASTOR house telescope could be a “1-meter class house telescope idea on a small satellite tv for pc platform that will make a singular contribution to astrophysics by offering huge discipline, high-resolution imaging within the UV and optical spectral area, surpassing any ground-based optical telescope in picture sharpness.” Based on CASCA it will fill an upcoming “ultraviolet hole” when the Hubble telescopes ends working.
Based on CASCA, “CASTOR is prepared — scientifically, technically and programmatically — for a proper request for approval.” They add that, “lobbying by the Coalition (CASCA, ACURA, and Business) stays underway, with assembly deliberate for the upcoming parliamentary session. Help from key Universities and a letter from the principal Canadian contractor corporations will probably be a part of the push.”
The CASTOR venture has additionally been working to drum up extra worldwide companions to take part within the venture. Some, such has NASA have been onboard for a while. Earlier this yr, the UK Area Company signed on after signing a memorandum of understanding with the Canadian Area Company. And extra lately discussions on “casual partnership concepts” occurred on the annual COSPAR assembly in South Korea with the newly fashioned Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA).
The subsequent assembly with Canadian and worldwide companions will occur in November in Victoria. CASCA mentioned the “three-day assembly will deal with a variety of know-how growth packages, together with optics, coatings detectors, electronics, and knowledge flows.” A CASTOR 2025 mid-term evaluation is deliberate.
If the venture will get the go forward, it’s hoped the house telescope might launch in 2030.
