NASA IR STIG PRIMA Seminar: Asteroid Defense and Interstellar Dust Insights on Sept 28, 2026

Global, Source:

NASA’s Cosmic Origins program is preparing for a significant virtual gathering on September 28, 2026. This event forms part of the Infrared Science and Technology Interest Group (IR STIG) series and showcases the scientific achievements of the Planetary Intermediates in Multidisciplinary Astrophysics (PRIMA) initiative. The focus rests on two major areas of study: planetary defense and the evolution of interstellar dust. Leading experts will present their work using infrared technology to explore the formation of our solar system and broader cosmic phenomena.

Joseph Masiero from the California Institute of Technology/IPAC will lead the first presentation. He addresses the critical need for planetary defense through thermal infrared imaging. Visible-light surveys have traditionally been the standard for detecting near-Earth asteroids. These methods often face challenges in accurately determining the size and composition of these objects. Masiero will share findings from the 14.5-year NEOWISE mission. This mission demonstrated that time-domain imaging in the thermal infrared offers deeper sensitivity and more precise size estimates based on thermal emission models. Such capabilities are essential for identifying hazardous asteroids that might pose impact risks to Earth. Masiero will also outline strategic plans for the upcoming NEO Surveyor mission. This mission aims to detect and characterize the majority of large hazardous asteroids to enhance global preparedness against cosmic threats.

The second session features Leonor Arriscado from the Centro de Astrobiología in Spain. She will explore the role of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in galaxy evolution. PAHs are complex organic molecules that serve as major components of interstellar dust. They produce prominent infrared emission features sensitive to the physical conditions of the interstellar medium. Understanding how PAH abundance and properties vary across different galactic environments provides vital insights into star formation and the lifecycle of matter in the universe. Arriscado will present studies on how PAHs probe galaxy properties and emphasize the necessity for systematic observations. She will highlight synergies between PRIMA and flagship facilities like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and ALMA. These collaborations enable comprehensive studies of PAH emission across various redshifts and cosmic epochs.

This seminar highlights the growing importance of infrared astronomy in both protecting Earth and understanding the chemical history of the cosmos. By combining data from past missions like NEOWISE with future endeavors like NEO Surveyor and JWST, scientists are building a more complete picture of the dynamic processes that shape our universe. The event serves as a key touchpoint for the astronomical community, fostering collaboration and advancing the technological tools necessary for discovery.