Nautilus Science Questions Workshop

This invitation-only workshop will bring together a small group of leading researchers for a focused, three-day discussion on the future of astronomy enabled by a potential constellation of large (8-m-class), replicated space telescopes.

The workshop will center on defining the most compelling science questions for the Nautilus Space Observatory concept, with an initial emphasis on extrasolar planets and related galactic astrophysics. With major advances in enabling technology and a credible path toward a next-generation facility, the goal is to engage key thinkers early to help shape a potentially transformative mission.

The meeting will feature short talks, breakout discussions, and collaborative working sessions. Participants will work in small groups to explore science ideas and outline white papers that will inform the emerging Nautilus science case and requirements.

Focus areas include:

• High-sensitivity studies of exoplanets with replicated space telescopes

• New approaches to stellar and galactic astrophysics enabled by large constellations

• Science opportunities beyond the capabilities of JWST

• Prioritizing key questions for a future flagship-class mission

The workshop is designed to be highly interactive, strategic, and forward-looking, with continued involvement for participants who contribute to the developing science case.

📅 Schedule

The workshop will run from Monday, May 11 to Wednesday, May 13, 2026, with sessions each day from approximately 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The program will emphasize short talks, breakout discussions, and collaborative working sessions. A detailed schedule will be posted in March 2026.

📝 Registration

Participation is by invitation only. A registration link will be emailed directly to invited participants.

Registration deadline: March 2, 2026

Registration fee: None

Limited financial support for travel is available for early-career scientists who may otherwise be unable to attend; details are provided in the invitation email.

🏛️ Venue & Travel

Location:

Room 55-100 (Rooms 55-108, 55-109, 55-110)
Department of Earth, Atmospheric & Planetary Sciences
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA, USA 02139

Getting here:

• Closest airport: Boston Logan International (BOS)

• Public transit: MIT is easily accessible by the MBTA Red Line; exit at Kendall/MIT.

• Parking: Limited metered street parking is available along Memorial Drive; public transit is strongly encouraged.

Accommodation

Participants are responsible for booking their own lodging. A block of rooms at a discounted rate has been reserved for workshop participants at the Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Cambridge; details and booking information are provided in the invitation email.

📬 Contact

Scientific Program:

• Daniel Apai (apai [at] arizona [dot] edu)

Local Logistics & Financial Support:

• Alma Pellecer (pellecer [at] mit [dot] edu)