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:
тАЬFrom Interesting Idea to Selected ASTRA Study: Thoughts and ConsiderationsтАЭ
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 reasonsтАФsuch as the simultaneous satisfaction of high-priority science, technical feasibility, stakeholder desirability, and resource viability under real programmatic constraints. Drawing on lessons from NASAтАЩs 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 investmentтАФpositioning their concept not just to be interesting, but to be chosen.
The webinar will be presented over Microsoft Teams. Connection details:
