This program element solicits proposals for "Pioneers", Astrophysics space and suborbital science investigations that are greater in cost, scope and capability than what is possible within the Astrophysics Research and Analysis (APRA) program (D.3 of ROSES-2021) but are smaller in cost than what is possible within the Astrophysics Explorers Mission of Opportunity (MO) program (e.g., PEA Q of SALMON-3 for the 2021 opportunity). Investigations are solicited using platforms that include cubesats (including constellations), SmallSats, lunar surface hosted payloads via the Commercial Lunar Payloads Services (CLPS) program, major balloon missions, and International Space Station (ISS)-attached payloads. Technology development and maturation within the proposed project is allowed, but the primary review criterion for selection is the merit of the proposed science investigation. All proposed investigations must be responsive to NASA's science goals in Astrophysics, as described in the 2020 NASA Science Mission Directorate Science Plan and the 2018 NASA Strategic Plan.
Awards:
NASA intends to select 1 to 3 proposals, and pending sufficient budget, to continue each of those that pass the gate into implementation
