The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a planned next-generation telescope with extendedly higher sensitivity and resolution, allowing us to answer remaining open questions about the universe, such as a search for life outside our solar system and a better understanding of the evolving ecosystem of galaxies. The TMT International Observatory (TIO), responsible for the operation and construction of the TMT, recently conducted the NSF PDR (Preliminary Design Review) and scientific discussions through workshops and White Papers are being accelerated. The 2024 TMT DSC (Detailed Science Case) was released in October 2024. In addition, two ELT-JWST workshops will be held (LA in December 2023 and Sendai in June 2024), and many more exciting developments and strategic synergies between large telescopes and space missions are expected in the coming decades. Taking advantage of the overall momentum, we will organize a series of science workshops called TMT-ACCESS (TMT eArly Career Centered, Engineers-Scientists Synergy) to enhance TMT science and foster the creation of new science cases. 

TMT-ACCESS is a cross-disciplinary science workshop that puts emphasis on discussions to comprehensively explore new science cases for the TMT under the updated construction timeline. That will facilitate interactions among researchers from different fields, leading to the development of innovative science cases at the boundaries of each discipline. Moreover, it offers opportunities that promote mutual understanding between engineers and scientists, providing a platform to foster planning and proposing next-generation instruments based on science cases.

The third workshop will be held in person at the Mitaka campus of the NAOJ (National Astronomical Observatory of Japan) on July 15–18, 2025. The theme of the workshop is "Challenges and Breakthroughs in Instrument Development for Extreme Performance".  Based on the Science for Future Telescopes and TMT DSC output from the 1st and 2nd workshops, as well as the invited talks related to instrument development in this workshop, the discussion will be aimed at more specific instrument development for the next generation telescopes. Participants will also have the opportunity to visit the laboratories of the NAOJ and the University of Tokyo. Note that the workshop will not be conducted in a hybrid format.

We welcome researchers, regardless of field or research methodology/wavelength, interested in conducting future studies using the TMT. We particularly encourage early-career researchers to participate, as they currently have limited opportunities for TMT science discussions. Alongside in-depth discussions on TMT science cases, TMT-ACCESS will offer opportunities to learn about the progress of the TIO and the NAOJ TMT Project. We invite young researchers who wish to participate in international projects enthusiastically in the future.

A dedicated JWST session will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the day before the TMT-ACCESS. JWST has delivered groundbreaking results in various fields such as galaxy evolution, exoplanets, solar system and star formation. It plays a crucial role in shaping the science cases for the TMT era. This session will feature the latest research presentations (both invited and contributed talks), as well as a proposal workshop aimed at writing successful JWST proposals. Presenters will be asked not only to share their latest JWST-based results, but also to discuss observational challenges that remain beyond JWST’s current capabilities, and the prospects for TMT. These discussions aim to connect to the development of the required functions and specifications of future TMT instruments. We strongly encourage the participation of early-career researchers interested in TMT and JWST.

Purpose

TMT-ACCESS is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants, regardless of their background, identity, or perspective. This Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for behavior and conduct during the event and applies to all attendees, including but not limited to, speakers, attendees, volunteers, and organizers.

Expected Behavior

1. Respect: Treat all participants with respect, courtesy, and consideration, regardless of their background, identity, or perspective.

2. Inclusivity: Create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions.

3. Professionalism: Act professionally at all times, maintaining a focus on the scientific content and goals of the event.

4. Collaboration: Encourage collaboration and the free exchange of ideas among participants.

5. Listen Actively: Listen actively and attentively to others, even when you may disagree with their views.

Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are considered unacceptable and will not be tolerated at TMT-ACCESS:

1. Harassment: Harassment, discrimination, or any form of bullying, whether verbal, written, or physical, will not be tolerated.

2. Disruptive Behavior: Disruptive behavior that interferes with presentations, discussions, or the overall flow of the event is not acceptable.

3. Invasion of Privacy: Unauthorized sharing of personal information, such as contact details or images, without consent is prohibited.

4. Hate Speech: Hate speech, offensive language, or any form of discrimination based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic is not allowed.

5. Intimidation: Intimidation, threats, or any form of coercion directed at other participants are strictly prohibited.

Reporting Violations

If you witness or experience any violations of this Code of Conduct during TMT-ACCESS, please report them to the TMT-ACCESS organizers immediately. You can do so in person or via e-mail (tmt-access@ml.nao.ac.jp).