SPICA: space infrared telescope for cosmology and astrophysics Original Research Article

We present the current status of the SPICA (space infrared telescope for cosmology and astrophysics, previously known as the HII/L2 mission). Onboard SPICA, a 3.5 m telescope cooled to 4.5 K provides an unprecedented combination of sensitivity and resolution for mid- to far-infrared observations (core wavelength between 5 and 200 μm). SPICA will make great contributions in many areas of astrophysics. We propose a “warm launch”, cooled telescope concept for SPICA: the telescope is to be launched at ambient temperature and is to be cooled to 4.5 K in orbit by a modest mechanical cooler system with the assistance of effective radiative cooling. We have been working on development programs focusing on two key technical issues: reliable mechanical coolers and the light-weight telescope system. The target launch year of SPICA is around 2010.