Science and Mission Status of EUSO-SPB2

Abstract

The Extreme Universe Space Observatory on a Super Pressure Balloon II (EUSO-SPB2) is a second-generation stratospheric balloon instrument designed to be a precursor mission for a future space observatory for multi-messenger astrophysics, like the proposed Probe Of Extreme Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (POEMMA). EUSO-SPB2 will study Ultra High Energy Cosmic Rays (UHECRs) via the fluorescence technique and Ultra High Energy (UHE) neutrinos via Cherenkov emission.EUSO-SPB2 will host onboard two Schmidt telescopes, each optimized for their respective observational goals. The Fluorescence Telescope will look downwards onto the atmosphere to study the UV fluorescence emission from UHECRs. The Cherenkov Telescope is designed to detect fast signals (∼10ns) and points near the Earth's limb. This allows for the measurement of Cherenkov light from Extensive Air Showers caused by Earth skimming UHE neutrinos if pointed slightly below the limb or from UHECRs if observing slightly above.The planned launch date of EUSO-SPB2 is 2023 from Wanaka, NZ with a flight duration target of 100 days. Such a long duration flight will provide hundreds of UHECR Cherenkov signals in addition to tens of UHECR fluorescence tracks, and will improve the understanding of potential background signals for both detection techniques.This contribution will provide a short overview of each telescope and the status of the mission as well as its scientific motivation.