The Astrophysics Cross-Observatory Science Support (ACROSS) Initiative

The Astro2020 Decadal Survey recommended an investment in Time Domain and Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (TDAMM) as the top-priority sustaining activity in space for the coming decade. One aspect of NASA’s response to this recommendation is a study, led by the Physics of the Cosmos Program Office, of how a structure akin to a General Observer Facility might be implemented that would provide support to both missions and observers as they pursue TDAMM science. The first year of the study focused on coordination between NASA missions; its chief recommendation was the initiation of the Astrophysics Cross-Observatory Science Support (ACROSS) pilot project, which began in October 2023. This talk covers the status and plans for the ACROSS pilot project, as well as the ongoing study, which is now extended in scope to look at coordination between NASA and ground-based observatories. We invite discussion with missions, observatories, and observers to better understand their needs and concerns.