A recent workshop aimed at advancing the exploration of the outer solar system took place from May 21 to 23, 2024, at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. The event, known as the Uranus Flagship Workshop, was co-led by NASA and the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. It gathered a diverse group of international experts, including a Science Organizing Committee and an early-career Local Organizing Committee drawn from both institutions.
The workshop stemmed from previous discussions highlighting a strong enthusiasm within the scientific community for launching a mission to Uranus. However, participants expressed a need for greater clarity regarding feasible objectives and implementation strategies. To address these concerns, the workshop focused on practical aspects of designing a flagship mission and explored innovative approaches to enhance outer planet exploration.
Key discussions revolved around leveraging best practices and lessons learned from earlier missions and NASA-commissioned studies. Participants examined the unique challenges associated with missions that operate far from both Earth and the Sun. The workshop’s goal was to guide the community toward a more pragmatic approach in mission design, which could facilitate the development of not only this mission but also future endeavors.
In particular, the workshop emphasized the importance of early engagement and participation from emerging scientists. This focus reflects a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in planetary science. Notable contributors to the event included Amy Simon, Louise Prockter, Ian Cohen, Kathleen Mandt, and Lynnae Quick. Their involvement underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in shaping the future of space exploration.
The workshop concluded with a clear consensus on the need for setting realistic expectations and addressing potential challenges early in the mission development process. As the scientific community looks toward the future, the insights generated from the Uranus Flagship Workshop are expected to play a pivotal role in refining mission strategies, ultimately enhancing our understanding of the outer solar system.
For those interested in further details, the workshop findings are documented in a white paper available on arXiv, under the citation arXiv:2508.21074. This resource provides a comprehensive overview of the discussions and outcomes, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about planetary exploration and mission planning.
