Autonomous Operations for the Swift Mission

Abstract

The Swift MIDEX mission is the first-of-its-kind multiwavelength observatory dedicated to the study of gamma-ray bursts. Due to launch in September of 2003, the main goals are to determine the origin of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) and to use bursts to probe the early universe. These goals address key quests of both the Structure and Evolution of the Universe and Origins themes. The Swift design combines wide and narrow field-of-view instruments with prompt response to GRBs. The Burst Alert Telescope (BAT), a 2-steradian wide-field gamma-ray camera, will detect and image ~150-300 GRBs per year with 1-4 arcmin positions. Once a GRB is detected, the Swift spacecraft will automatically slew to point narrowfield X-ray and UV/optical telescopes at the position of the GRB to determine arcsec positions and perform detailed afterglow observations. In addition, the spacecraft will provide notification via Burst Alert Messages, within 20 seconds, to the GRB Coordinates Network (GCN) at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) for immediate distribution to the science community of GRB detection. This will provide the opportunity for other ground and space-based assets to observe the newly detected burst if desired.