Andrea Melandri , INAF – Osservatorio Astronomico di Roma
The CHIPS team is developing the first cryogenic infrared space telescope on a CubeSat, enabling advanced science at lower costs than larger and substantially more expensive missions. With near-infrared sensitivity, stable imaging in four simultaneously exposed filter bands, and rapid slewing, CHIPS will (1) study Gamma Ray Burst afterglows from the edge of the observable Universe and (2) detect infrared counterparts of gravitational waves. It will also investigate Near-Earth Objects, discover Earth-size exoplanets, and pave the way for future space telescope constellations. This talk will present the project’s status and key technological innovations of the proposed mission.