Thursday, 28 October 2021, 15:00 – 16:00 EDT
Abstract: ULTRASAT is a dedicated near-ultraviolet imaging mission that is under development in Israel with NASA participation. Its large field of view (~ 200 sq. degrees) and efficient detectors (peak QE ~ 70%) will provide an unprecedented survey efficiency. Key science drivers emphasize time-domain astronomy, including monitoring of stellar explosions and follow-up of gravitational wave events. But ULTRASAT’s planned applications span a much wider range, including solar system studies; exoplanets; stars; galaxies; and cosmology. In this talk I will provide an overview of the spacecraft’s capabilities and its operations concept; and will discuss opportunities for the US community to become involved through an anticipated NASA Participating Scientist Program proposal call.