Science and Tech

NASA Selects PRIMA for Phase B Development

Published on 26 Sep 2026

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NASA Selects PRIMA for Phase B Development
  • NASA selected PRIMA (PRobe far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics) to enter Phase B (preliminary design and technology development) on 23 September 2026.
  • First mission in the new Probe Explorers class under the Explorers Program.
  • Features a 1.8-metre (5.9-foot) telescope; targeted launch in 2033 with a five-year mission life.
  • Project cost capped at $1.2 billion (excluding launch and non-project costs); managed by JPL.
  • Will observe in the far-infrared band, bridging JWST and radio telescopes like ALMA.
  • Science goals include planet formation, galaxy and black-hole growth, dust/element accumulation, and water delivery to Earth.

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