As part of the NASA Astrophysics Strategic Technology & Research Accelerator (ASTRA) initiative [PDF], and in preparation for the Ad ASTRA Community Science Workshop in September, there will be a virtual seminar by Al Nash (JPL) on 30 April 2026, at 12:30p Eastern (9:30a Pacific), titled:
“From Interesting Idea to Selected ASTRA Study: Thoughts and Considerations”
This webinar introduces astrophysicists to the often-misunderstood reality that mission concept studies are not selected for their scientific or technical brilliance alone, but for a variety of reasons—such as the simultaneous satisfaction of high-priority science, technical feasibility, stakeholder desirability, and resource viability under real programmatic constraints. Drawing on lessons from NASA’s mission lifecycle and formulation practices, and aligned with the goals of the Astrophysics Strategic Technology & Research Accelerator (ASTRA) initiative to identify and mature strategically compelling concepts , this presentation discusses how to move from curiosity-driven ideas to concepts that survive community prioritization, align with decadal guidance, leverage partnerships, and justify early investment—positioning their concept not just to be interesting, but to be chosen.
The webinar will be presented over Microsoft Teams. Connection details:
- Join on Teams app: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/289153673664167?p=7oatuLZ8dbZJsrR4LP
- Meeting ID: 289 153 673 664 167
- Passcode: Hq2qa3vY
- Dial in by phone:
- +1 323-813-7400,,669666138# United States, Los Angeles
- Find a local number
- Phone conference ID: 669 666 138#