NASA advances PRIMA far-infrared space telescope mission

NASA has advanced the Probe Far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics (PRIMA) to Phase B of its development. This mission represents a new class of astrophysical probes within NASA’s Explorers program, focusing on the preliminary design and technology development stages.

Scheduled for launch in 2033 with a planned five-year mission duration, PRIMA is designed to observe the universe in the far-infrared spectrum. This capability is intended to bridge the observational gap between existing infrared observatories, such as the James Webb Space Telescope, and radio telescopes. By studying energy emitted in the far-infrared, the mission aims to investigate the formation of planets, the evolution of galaxies, the growth of black holes, and the accumulation of dust and heavy elements in the cosmos.

If the project proceeds to full implementation following a confirmation review, the estimated cost is capped at $1.2 billion, excluding launch and non-design costs. The telescope will feature a mirror approximately 1.7 to 1.8 meters in diameter and will carry complementary instruments to study cold objects or those obscured by cosmic dust.