2019 ISSRDC Award: Generating High-Precision X-Ray Measurements Contributing to Multiple Discoveries and Investigations

Each year, the International Space Station (ISS) Research and Development (R&D) Conference, held in coordination with the ISSInternational Space Station U.S. National Laboratory, NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the American Astronautical Society, highlights individuals who have pushed the boundaries of space-based research through the presentation of research awards. This week, we are spotlighting awardees in the category of “compelling results.” Today’s spotlight is on the NICER Investigation Team from NASA, for compelling results in the field of physical sciences and materials development.

Using the Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER) payload attached to the exterior of the ISS, the NICER investigation team examines the physics of neutron stars—the dense, glowing remnants of massive stars after they explode in supernovae. High-precision measurements from NICER have provided valuable insights into the nature and behavior of neutron stars, black holes, and other X-ray astrophysics phenomena. NICER has made important observations of pulsars (rapidly spinning neutron stars) and corona contractions of stellar black holes and has been featured in Nature and Scientific American.