Bryan Dorland (U.S. Naval Observatory), Ralph Gaume (U.S. Naval Observatory), Norbert Zacharias (U.S. Naval Observatory), Valeri Makarov (Alpha Proximi), Chris Rollins (Research Support Instruments), Greg Hennessy (U.S. Naval Observatory) Kenneth Johnston (U.S. Naval Observatory), Dave Monet (U.S. Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station)
Keywords: Astronomy
Abstract:
We describe the Joint Milli-Arcsecond Pathfinder Survey (J-MAPS) at the unclassified level. J-MAPS is a space-based, all-sky astrometric and photometric survey from 2nd through 15th magnitude with a 2010 launch date goal. The instrument consists of a 15-cm telescope, a large (64 megapixel) active pixel sensor focal plane, and associated processing electronics and is carried aboard a microsatellite bus in a 900-km, sun-synchronous low earth orbit.
In addition to presenting a mission overview, we will discuss the unclassified applications of the mission and its data products. The primary mission goal for J-MAPS is the generation of a 1-milliarcsecond (mas) all-sky astrometric catalog for the 2010 epoch in support DoD space platform precise orientation needs for the next decade and later. The resultant optical reference grid will be available for all ground- and space-based optical SSA sensors, with a density of >100 stars per square degree and a resolution of 20 cm at GEO. In addition, J-MAPS will serve as a pathfinder for new technology in support of future space missions, including the very large format detector, the onboard processing electronics, and next generation space-based GPS-technology.
We also discuss the astronomy and astrophysics applications of J-MAPS. A 1-mas (or better) all-sky survey through approximately 15th magnitude will have a tremendous impact on our current understanding of the galaxy and stellar astrophysics. J-MAPS science topics include: a kinematic and photometric exploration of the nearest star forming regions and associations; an understanding of the dynamics and membership of nearby open clusters; a survey of nearby stars that addresses the 130 missing systems within 10 pc; recalibration of the cosmic distance scale via distances to nearby clusters and the period-luminosity relationship using high accuracy proper motion (Hipparcos and J-MAPS positions and a twenty year baseline) and parallax measurements; discovery of giant planets and brown dwarfs orbiting nearby stars; kinematic detection of galactic cannibalism and mergers in the Milky Way; and discovery of low-mass black holes and neutron stars in astrometric binaries.
Date of Conference: September 10-14, 2006
Track: Astronomy