The SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer) mission aims to address several key scientific goals, primarily focused on understanding the universe’s evolutionary processes. One of its main objectives is to investigate cosmic inflation, which is the rapid expansion of space in the early universe. By surveying the sky in near-infrared wavelengths, SPHEREx will map variations in the cosmic background to learn more about conditions shortly after the Big Bang.
Additionally, SPHEREx will explore the history of galaxy formation by conducting a detailed all-sky survey that provides a 3D map of density fluctuations in four dimensions, tracking both time and position in the sky. This map can help scientists understand how and when galaxies formed and evolved, providing insight into the distribution of galaxies across vast cosmic scales.
Moreover, the mission focuses on identifying biogenic and prebiotic molecules in the interstellar medium, aiming to assess the prevalence of water and other vital organic materials across the galaxy. By surveying icy materials in stellar nurseries and young planetary systems, SPHEREx will contribute to our understanding of the conditions under which stars and planets form, and whether they might hold the building blocks for life.
Through these diverse objectives, SPHEREx will offer critical insights into fundamental cosmic questions regarding the origin and evolution of the universe, helping to bridge gaps in our understanding of cosmology and astrobiology.