Lunar observatory project advances for star and galaxy research

A new project aims to build a giant interferometer on the moon that will help scientists learn more about stars and galaxies. This project is called the Artemis-enabled Stellar Imager (AeSI). It plans to use 15 to 30 telescopes arranged in an elliptical shape over one kilometer on the lunar surface. Led by Dr. Kenneth Carpenter from NASA, a team has completed a feasibility study for AeSI after nine months of research. The idea is based on an earlier design called the Stellar Imager, which was meant to operate in space. However, with the progress of NASA's Artemis program to build habitats on the moon, the team believes AeSI is now a more feasible option. NASA's Artemis missions offer a unique chance to set up telescopes on the moon. These telescopes can avoid many problems faced by similar devices on Earth or in space. AeSI aims to answer important scientific questions, such as understanding the surfaces of stars and the behavior of active galactic nuclei. By capturing images of stars, scientists can study the activity happening inside them. This knowledge may reveal details about solar activity and its effects on Earth. AeSI will look at stars like Alpha Centauri A and Sirius A to better understand their surfaces and magnetic activities, which could affect the planets around them. The project also aims to observe other astronomical phenomena, such as accretion disks around stars and events related to supernova explosions. The telescope array will enable scientists to gather detailed information about these complex areas, which can be challenging to observe. The proposed design involves robotic or astronaut deployment during Artemis missions. Each telescope will be one meter wide and placed on small rovers. The moon's lack of atmosphere makes it an ideal location for these telescopes, allowing them to work without atmospheric interference. The timeline for this project depends on the success of the Artemis missions, with the first crewed flight planned for 2026. AeSI may not be deployed until the late 2030s or early 2040s. The team is considering locations near previously established Artemis infrastructure on the moon for easier access. As the project moves forward, the AeSI team will continue to research the technology needed for the interferometer and explore additional scientific goals it could help achieve.