The New Frontiers program is a critical part of NASA’s planetary science portfolio and has played a crucial role in maintaining the United States’ preeminence in solar system exploration. Over the last two decades, it has provided valuable scientific observations of Jupiter, Pluto, the Kuiper Belt, and a near-Earth asteroid.  

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine investigates recent scientific, programmatic, and technological advances and their potential impact for NASA’s fifth mission in this class. It recommends that the following themes be included in the next New Frontiers announcement of opportunity:  

• Centaur Orbiter and Lander

• Ceres Sample Return

• Comet Surface Sample Return

• Enceladus Multiple Flyby

• Io Observer

• Lunar Geophysical Network

• Saturn Probe

• Centaur Orbiter and Lander

• Ceres Sample Return

• Comet Surface Sample Return

• Enceladus Multiple Flyby

• Io Observer

• Lunar Geophysical Network

• Saturn Probe

According to the report, these proposed mission themes — identified along with others in the recent planetary and astrobiology decadal survey — will help meet key needs, promote a balanced portfolio of missions, and help NASA achieve its ambitious science objectives.  

DETAILS: Proposed Science Themes for NASA’s Fifth New Frontiers Mission is available for immediate release. Media inquiries should be directed to the Office of News and Public Information at tel. 202-334-2138 or email news@nas.edu.