Issues in & Board on Physics and Astronomy · The National Academies · Washington, D.C. · 202-334-3520 · national-academies.org/bpa · Summer 2009

Challenges and Opportunities in New Materials Synthesis and Crystal Growth James C. Lancaster, BPA Staff or much of the past 60 years, the Madison), was charged with the respon- ficiently interesting scientifically or relevant U.S. research community dominat- sibility of assessing the health of research for an application—or as often happens, Fed the discovery of new crystalline activities in the United States in this field, both—large single crystals of that material materials and the growth of large single identifying future opportunities and rec- are needed for detailed study. Because of crystals. These efforts placed the country at ommending strategies for the United States common heritage, shared resources, and the forefront of fundamental advances in to reinvigorate its efforts and thereby return strong educational bonds, it is natural to condensed-matter sciences and fueled the to a position of leadership in this field. The combine these related activities—the dis- development of many of the new technolo- committee issued its report this past spring. covery and growth of crystalline materials gies at the core of U.S. economic growth. The two activities in this field— (DGCM)—in a single study. The growth of The opportunities offered by future devel- discovering new crystalline materials and thin, two-dimensional crystalline films also opments in this field remain as promising growing large crystals of these materials— is included in this study because it shares as the achievements of the past. However, have long been intertwined. Here, “crystal- many common scientific and technologi- the past 20 years have seen not only a sub- line material” refers to materials in which cal goals with the growth of bulk, three- stantial deterioration in the United States’ long-range periodicity of atomic positions dimensional materials. capability to pursue those opportunities is critical for the material’s functionality. The research activities falling under but also significant increases in investment It is noted that such materials form a class the DGCM umbrella are broad, spreading by several European and Asian countries distinct from nanomaterials, the function- over traditional academic disciplines such to develop their capacities in these areas. ality of which is defined by attributes gov- as chemistry, materials science, and phys- The Committee for an Assessment of erned by one or more nanometer-sized di- ics and undertaken in institutions such and Outlook for New Materials Synthesis mensions of the sample specimen, whether as university, government, and industrial and Crystal Growth, chaired by Paul crystalline or amorphous. Once a new crys- S. Peercy (University of Wisconsin at talline material is found to be either suf- See “Crystal Growth” on page 12

In this issue: Progress on the Astronomy and • Crystal Growth. Page 1 Decadal Survey, Astro2010 • Astro2010 Progress. Page 1 Michael H. Moloney and Caryn Joy Knutsen, BPA Staff • BPA Spring Meeting. Page 2 s reported in the last newsletter questions and areas of potential discov- • CAMOS Spring Meeting. the various elements of the Na- ery for the next decade. During the May Page 4 Ational Research Council’s Decadal 10-14, 2009 Astro2010 Meeting, known Survey of Astronomy and Astrophysics as the “jamboree,” in Irvine, CA, each SFP • SSSC Spring Meeting. Page 5 (Astro2010) are well underway. Previous presented internal reports to the survey • Plasma Science Spring newsletters have given an in depth descrip- committee and the Program Prioritiza- Meeting. Page 6 tion of the survey structure and timeline. tion Panels (PPPs). This meeting brought together the SFPs and Infrastructure Study • Radio Frequencies Spring Science Frontier Panel Update Groups (ISGs) chairs, survey committee Meeting. Page 7 Over the summer months the five members, and newly appointed (April • BPA Recent Reports. Page 8 Science Frontier Panels (SFPs) have con- 2009) PPPs. Since the jamboree, SFPs have • Space Future Report. Page 10 tinued their work, studying the science white papers and identifying key science See “Astro2010 Progress” on page 14 2 BPA News · Summer 2009 Highlights of the Spring Meeting of the The next presentations were delivered by Tom Gergely and Andrew Clegg, from Board on Physics and Astronomy NSF, and John Zuzek, from NASA, who discussed spectrum management for sci- James C. Lancaster, BPA Staff ence. Dr. Clegg discussed a modification to he Keck Center of the National ing diversity, strengthening the funding of Footnote 5.565 that the ITU is reviewing Academies in Washington, D.C. theory, and to core research (as opposed to and that will be discussed at the upcoming Tserved as the meeting site for this the amount of funding that goes to support World Radiocommunications Confer- year’s spring meeting of the Board on centers and facilities). ence 2012 (WRC12). He noted that radio Physics and Astronomy. After greeting Zakya Kafafi, Director of the Divi- astronomers have a window of opportunity committee members and visitors, Chair sion of Materials Research (DMR) at NSF, here to expand international spectrum Marc Kastner called the meeting to order. spoke next discussing some of the recent regulatory considerations, which ultimate- Much of the first day consisted of dis- changes in DMR’s funding outlook. The ly may help reduce interference to present cussions with representatives from federal NSF budget requests are up this year and future ground- and space-based sub- agencies that support physics and astrono- seeking a 13 percent increase overall in millimeter instruments. Reviewing other my research, or science research in general. FY2009. The Mathematical and Sciences WRC12 science issues, Dr. Gergely stated The overall message about the status of Directorate is seeking a 20 percent in- that about half of the current WRC12 science support in the current administra- crease and DMR is seeking an increase of tion was quite positive. Amy Kaminski almost 25 percent. Dr. Kafafi pointed out and Michael Holland, from the Office of that while NSF provides approximately Management and Budget (OMB), reported 95 percent of the National High Magnetic Board on Physics and Astronomy that they do not anticipate any changes in Field Laboratory’s (NHMFL) funding, Marc A. Kastner, Chair, Massachusetts OMB’s structure and staffing due to the NHMFL is serving an increasingly broad Institute of Technology recent election. OMB is working on the user community and partnership is essen- Adam S. Burrows, Vice-chair, Princeton FY2010 budgets and intends to focus on tial for continued operations of this facility. University cost realism in carrying out the Obama Ad- Dr. Kafafi also reported on the results from Philip H. Bucksbaum, Stanford University ministration’s commitment to significantly an advisory panel on light sources regard- Patrick L. Colestock, Los Alamos National Laboratory increase spending on the physical sciences. ing future facility and instrumentation James Drake, University of Maryland The next speaker, Jean Cottam Allen from needs. Finally, she discussed a U.S.-China James Eisenstein, California Institute of the Office of Science and Technology workshop on nanostructure materials that Technology Policy (OSTP), mentioned that OSTP is was held in Evanston, Illinois in September Andrea M. Ghez, University of California at still in the process of filling politically ap- 2008, and she noted that this is just one of Los Angeles pointed positions, but is moving forward a number of materials networks that are Peter F. Green, University of Michigan in the interim. One focus of OSTP will be developing on the global scale. Laura H. Greene, University of Illinois, improving interagency activities and two of After a short break, Craig Foltz and Urbana-Champaign the interdisciplinary areas that will receive Eileen Friel, from the Astronomical Sci- Martha P. Haynes, Cornell University priority are energy and the environment, ence Division (AST) at the NSF discussed Joseph Hezir, EOP Group, Inc. and STEM education (science, technology, news from their division. They reported on Mark B. Ketchen, IBM Thomas J. Watson engineering and mathematics). the status of a number of the projects AST Research Center Joseph Lykken, Fermi National Accelerator Joe Dehmer reported on developments funds, including the Atacama Large Mil- Laboratory in the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) limeter Array (ALMA), which is currently Pierre Meystre, University of Arizona Division of Physics and noted they are under construction. Cost performance is Homer A. Neal, University of Michigan constantly looking for ways to promote good, but ALMA is slightly behind con- Monica Olvera de la Cruz, Northwestern innovative efforts in physics. Among the struction schedule. Development of the University examples cited were the Physics at the Advanced Technology Solar Telescope Jose N. Onuchic, University of California at Information Frontier program focusing on (ATST)—the first large U.S. solar telescope San Diego issues such as quantum information com- constructed in the past 30 years—is pro- Lisa Randall, puting, and the Physics of Living Systems ceeding on schedule. The ATST project Charles V. Shank, Janelia Farm, HHMI program, which is now the fastest growing is nearing completion of design and NSF Michael S. Turner, The University of program in his division. The Division of hopes to have final review and completion Chicago Physics remains committed to devoting of compliance with ancillary requirements Michael C.F. Wiescher, University of Notre Dame over 50 percent of its funding to increas- in the summer of 2009. BPA News · Summer 2009 3 agenda items have some relevance to radio ences at the DOE, spoke of the long-term ties in OFES, and the new joint HEDLP astronomy. Speaking from NASA’s per- strategic planning efforts that have been program with NNSA that was started in spective, Dr. Zuzek commented that NASA underway at DOE, developing a roadmap FY 2008, and he discussed the OFES Fu- is completely reliant on continued and for energy research. Among the products sion Simulation Program (FSP) in which predictable spectrum allocation and that of those efforts are a set of Energy Fron- they are collaborating with the Office of NASA must continue to collaborate closely tiers Research Centers that have been Advanced Scientific Computing Research with other U.S. agencies to protect vital announced, and will receive initial funding (ASCR) spectrum and create opportunities for suc- later this year. Chris Deeney, from the National cessful introduction of new technologies. Continuing with the string of DOE Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), To finish up the morning’s activi- representatives, Dennis Kovar, Associ- reported on the status of NNSA’s work ties, Ed Weiler and Jon Morse reported ate Director of the DOE’s Office of High on high energy density physics studies. the latest news from NASA. The Hubble Energy Physics (HEP), spoke next noting Through 3 facilities owned and operated repair is proceeding according to plan, and that HEP’s budget and their program for by NNSA, they are attempting to study they expect to begin receiving new data FY 2009 is in much better shape than in what happens to materials under extreme two months after the repairs are made. previous years. HEP has been able to miti- conditions. Dr. Deeney was able to report Two of the top problems NASA currently gate most of the serious impacts associated that the newest of those facilities, the faces are lack of modest launch capabil- with the FY 2008 funding reduction and National Ignition Facility (NIF), is now ity and access to space. They also view has developed a new strategic plan for operational and is preparing for a full igni- the upcoming release of the NRC decadal high energy physics in the United States, tion attempt in 2010. survey report (Astro2010) as an important the implementation of which is supported Michael Lubell, APS Director of Public event for NASA; the report is considered by the FY 2009 increase. Dr. Kovar then Affairs, then provided his perspective on a most effective tool in maintaining pri- discussed how HEP’s program will gener- science will be treated under the Obama orities and getting science programs in ate advances not only in accelerator phys- Administration. In the near term, the place. NASA hopes this survey will bring ics but also in cosmic frontier studies and administration has put a strong science about realistic cost estimates and achieve advanced technology development, among advisory team in place and science is be- consistency across the recommendations other areas. ing well-supported, particularly with the from the various components of the sur- Dr. Gene Henry from the DOE Office instatement of the Recovery and Reinvest- vey (the panels and the main committee). of Nuclear Physics (NP) presented next ment Act. In the out years, Dr. Lubell sees Given the increasing sophistication and and commented that past investments two conflicting trends—the previously rising costs of future programs, NASA have positioned the U.S. nuclear physics mentioned goal of doubling the science also expects to see more and more joint program as a world-leader or among the budgets and a counter-push to constrain programs— architectures and activities— leaders in all the major scientific thrusts federal budgets as deficits are brought with other agencies both here and abroad. of nuclear physics, but sustained fund- under control and the economy starts to After lunch, Pat Dehmer, Deputy Di- ing is needed to continue to operate the recover. rector for Science Programs in the Office facilities, to remain competitive, and to The second day of the meeting began of Science at the U.S. Department of Ener- maintain a leadership role in the future. with a presentation by Dr. Larry Naga- gy (DOE) spoke to the board. She reported Dr. Henry reported that there is an op- hara, Program Director in Oncology in that for the first time appropriations in the portunity for NP to implement a world- the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) FY 2009 budget request were in line with class program that will deliver new insight National Cancer Institute. After discussing the America Competes Act, which calls into the nature and structure of matter the sobering reality associated with cancer for the doubling of certain science budgets that will have significant impact outside incidence and mortality, Dr. Nagahara over an approximately 7 year span. As to of nuclear physics, so long as the Office of discussed a new program put in place in department plans, she expects to see more Science’s budget continues to double over NCI’s Center for Strategic Scientific Initia- research centers focused on specific issues the next decade. tives that seeks to draw upon ideas and and expects to see a more balance portfo- Steve Eckstrand from DOE/OFES concepts developed in physics to provide lio that extends beyond just energy-based delivered a presentation on OFES mis- new perspectives for tackling various is- studies. The ITER project is going into the sion, goals and program, ITER status, and sues faced in cancer research. design and construction phase and Dr. strategic planning. He noted that creating Next, Dr. Adam Riess, Johns Hopkins Dehmer is confident of continued support and exploring a burning plasma in ITER University, delivered a science talk on by the United States. is the crucial next step in the magnetic fu- , focusing on why the con- Next, Harriett Kung, Associate Di- sion energy science (MFES) program. Dr. rector of the Office of Basic Energy Sci- Eckstrand also discussed HEDLP activi- See “BPA Spring Meeting” on page 15 4 BPA News · Summer 2009 Highlights of the Spring Meeting of the energy frontier research centers and the BES report Directing Matter and Energy. Committee on Atomic, Molecular and The NIST representative noted that over 70% of the physics laboratory activities Optical Sciences were related to AMO science. He also Michael H. Moloney, BPA Staff mentioned how well the AMO2010 report had packaged the field and that NIST had he Committee on Atomic, Mo- Scientific Research (AFOSR) attended used the report to justify new programs lecular and Optical Sciences the meeting and provided presentations both internally and externally. The AFOSR T(CAMOS) is a standing activity to the committee. In particular, the agen- representative noted that the priorities in of the Board on Physics and Astronomy cies discussed their plans to spend extra the AMO2010 were well aligned with the (BPA). The committee membership covers funds from the then recently-appropri- agency’s programs. the full breadth of the atomic, molecular, ated stimulus funds, and addressed their The agency discussions also addressed and optical (AMO) sciences and forms a performance in recent years. They also the importance of Quantum Information multidisciplinary group with experts from discussed how their programs had been Science (QIS) both in the AMO2010 re- universities, industry, and government impacted by the AMO2010 report. port and in their respective programs. This laboratories. The committee heard how the theme lead logically into the second half of After a period of dormancy during the AMO2010 report effectively laid out the the meeting, during which the committee writing of the AMO2010 volume of the science opportunities in the field that held a focus session on QIS. Physics 2010 Decadal Survey, Control- underpins the research support in the CAMOS intends to organize “focus ling the Quantum World: The Science of federal agencies. The NSF representative sessions” on various topical research is- Atoms, Molecules, and Photons, CAMOS commended the report for aggregating sues from time to time. The intent is to has been reestablished with the following AMO science into compelling intellectual highlight progress in a particular research objectives: streams that will help attract attention to area related to AMO science. The com- • To provide active stewardship of the the field. The DOE representative noted mittee will consider which areas are ripe agenda laid out in Controlling the that the report had played an important for attention and possibly in need of a full Quantum World; role in the strategic planning of the AMO- NRC study. The format of a focus ses- • To provide a means for dialog with related activities in the Basic Energy sion includes science updates from active federal agencies on AMO science Sciences program. The report was well- researchers and program updates from and related fields; aligned with growth in the DOE program agency representatives, followed by discus- • To initiate case studies on impor- and had an impact on the planning of the sions among all the invited speakers and tant timely topics in AMO science the committee of the area under consider- and/or its multidisciplinary con- ation. The focus session on QIS included nections with other fields of science Committee on Atomic, Molecular science updates from Brian DeMarco, Uni- and technology. and Optical Sciences versity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, • To provide a venue for discussion and Chris Monroe, University of Mary- Stephen Pratt, Chair, Argonne National among AMO scientists and thereby land. The agency representatives from the Laboratory provide a unifying force in this morning session also contributed com- Pierre Meystre, Vice Chair, University of diverse and varied field. Arizona ments and suggestions. Carl Williams from Following the appointment of the com- Charles Conover, Colby College the Administration’s Office of Science and mittee in the spring, CAMOS held its first Steven Cundiff,JILA, NIST: University of Technology Policy (OSTP) outlined their meeting since 2004 on May 15-16, 2009, in Colorado recent report on QIS and the outcomes Washington DC. The agenda on the first Todd Ditmire, The University of Texas from a workshop held shortly in advance day focused on two themes: updates from Norval Fortson, University of Washington of the CAMOS meeting (see http://www. the agencies supporting AMO research Timothy Gay, University of Nebraska eas.caltech.edu/qis2009/). and a “focus session” on Quantum Infor- Marshall Jones, GE Global Research Some highlights of the ensuing discus- mation Science. Christopher Monroe, University of sion were: Federal agency representatives from Maryland • QIS was described as a new and David R. Schultz, Oak Ridge National the National Science Foundation (NSF), emerging field and not merely an Laboratory the Department of Energy (DOE), the interdisciplinary field. AMO science Carol E. Tanner, University of Notre Dame National Institute of Standards and Tech- David Weiss, Pennsylvania State University has given birth to QIS but it will nology (NIST), and Air Force Office of evolve beyond these roots to involve BPA News · Summer 2009 5

math, theoretical computer sci- as opening up new technology Since the focus session, CAMOS has ence, and other areas of physics and pathways. Any future NRC report been preparing a white paper on QIS to chemistry. should focus on describing the in- explore the need for and avenues to under- • There is no investment strategy yet tellectual foundations of this emerg- taking a new NRC study in this emerging within the Administration for QIS. ing field. field. • While the AMO2010 report’s • The profile of research support from In the weeks that followed the May chapter on QIS tended to focus on the federal agencies is changing meeting the committee also held the first computation and nearer term re- and as some of the applications of of what will be an annual town hall meet- search goals, QIS is “more than just QIS, such as cryptology, move from ing at the APS Division of AMO Physics implementing qubits.” It includes science to engineering. Support for meeting in Charlottesville, VA. The com- quantum simulation, for instance. some of the leading scientists is dry- mittee will next meet in Irvine, CA on • There are fundamental questions in ing up. Meanwhile QIS funding in December 12-13, 2009, and details of that QIS that are ready to be explored. Europe and elsewhere in the world and all other CAMOS activities can be QIS will unlock our understand- is increasing with science-driven found at http://sites.nationalacademies. ing of quantum processes as well approaches. org/BPA/BPA_04849. ■

Highlights of the Spring Meeting of the Solid State Sciences Committee James C. Lancaster, BPA Staff

he Solid States Sciences Committee different perspective on issues associated for science take place at the federal level. held its spring meeting at the Keck with government funding of the sciences, He also discussed ways that the SSSC can TCenter of the National Academies and led a discussion with the committee be most effective in participating in these in Washington, D.C. on April 1-2, 2009. on how authorizations and appropriations processes on behalf of its constituent Representatives of federal agencies that sup- communities. port research efforts in solid state sciences The committee also heard several presented reports to the committee that, in Solid State Sciences Committee presentations from researchers whose contrast to previous years, quite positive. Barbara Jones, Chair, IBM Almaden work focuses on biological connections to Harriet Kung, Director of the Basic Monica Olvera de la Cruz, Vice-chair, condensed matter and materials sciences. Energy Services Program for the U.S. Northwestern University Nigel Goldenfeld, University of Illinois at Department of Energy, reported on Sec- Daniel Arovas, University of California, San Urbana-Champaign, discussed biologi- retary ’s plans for DOE and Diego cal modeling from a condensed matter Collin L. Broholm, Johns Hopkins discussed some of the strategic planning perspective and general areas where physi- University efforts underway to carry out those plans. cists and biologists can find meaningful Paul Chaikin, New York University Zakya Kafafi, Director of the National George Crabtree, Argonne National collaboration. Robert Austin, Princeton Science Foundation’s Division of Materials Laboratory University, discussed his recent work on Research, reported on NSF’s plans for its Andrea J. Liu, University of Pennsylvania spin glasses and how some of his findings centers and facilities that focus on materials Joseph Orenstein, University of California might shed light on biological issues such research and discussed efforts to promote at Berkeley as the dynamics of evolution and cancer education in this area. Both DOE and NSF Arthur P. Ramirez, University of California therapy. Mark Bowick, Syracuse Universi- addressed the significant increases in sup- at Santa Cruz ty, discussed his research with bio-inspired port for research in condensed matter and Richard A. Register, Princeton University soft matter and efforts to synthesize studies materials sciences in the current budgets Mark Stiles, National Institute of Standards on natural and artificial nanoscaled struc- and the American Recovery and Reinvest- and Technology tures. The final speaker was Mark Pinto, Dale Van Harlingen, University of Illinois, ment Act. Chief Technology Officer for Applied Urbana-Champaign Michael Holland, the program examiner Materials, Inc, who presented some of the Fred Wudl, University of California, Santa for the Energy Branch at the Office of Man- Barbara outstanding issues the industry is facing in agement and Budget, provided a slightly nanomanufacturing technologies. ■ 6 BPA News · Summer 2009 Highlights of the Spring Meeting of associated with computational plasma physics, including hardware complexities the Plasma Science Committee such as heterogenous multicore, power management, error control, communica- David B. Lang, BPA Staff tions, storage, and software challenges he spring meeting of the Plasma ma physics, and Relativistic high energy such as operating systems, I/O and file Science Committee (PLSC) was density plasma physics. systems, and coding/algorithmic needs Theld on March 27-28, 2009 in Patrick Colestock, PLSC Member, in the face of increased computer archi- Washington, DC. Riccardo Betti, PLSC presented the results of the committee tecture complexity. He concluded his talk Chair, began the meeting by welcoming that conducted the review of the plan for by stating that, in general, progress in the committee’s guests. U.S. fusion community participation in delivering reliable predictive capabilities in Steve Eckstrand from DOE/OFES ITER. Dr. Colestock, who chaired that FES and plasma physics will benefit sig- delivered a presentation on OFES mis- committee, discussed the report’s find- nificantly from access to supercomputing sion and program issues, funding major ings and recommendations. The report resources—from terascale to petascale and facilities and collaborations, ITER status, concluded that U.S. participation in plan- beyond—together with a vigorous verifica- strategic planning status, and details on ning for ITER had been strong relative to tion and validation program the planning process. He noted that there its level of contribution to the project of Ed Moses, Principal Associate Direc- are significant program issues, including about 9%. It also found that the U.S. fusion tor of NIF and Photon Science at LLNL, rebuilding the leadership of OFES, sup- program was threatened by the unstable delivered a presentation titled “from porting the ITER program, addressing the commitment to the project embodied in ignition on NIF to an ICF-based fu- programs in a flat-budget scenario, and the decision to not fund the first install- sion-fission power plant.” Dr. Moses’ talk the need for new initiatives and strategic ment of U.S. support to ITER in FY2008. focused on using NIF to develop a hybrid plans. He went on to discuss OFES’ role The committee’s report also recommended fusion-fission reactor capable of burning in ITER, a large international project that several goals and metrics to be considered spent nuclear fuel and weapons waste. will demonstrate the scientific and techni- in the future development of the plan for The concept, called the Laser Inertial cal feasibility of fusion power. The goal U.S. participation in ITER. Fusion Engine (LIFE), would use an ICF for first plasma has slipped from 2016 to Joe Dehmer, Director of the Division of laser system similar to the one now under 2018-19, with a staged commissioning. Dr. Physics at NSF, spoke about NSF Physics’ development at NIF to ignite fusion tar- Eckstrand also discussed HEDLP activities (PHY) strategic and investment goals, as gets surrounded by a spherical blanket of in OFES, and the new joint HEDLP pro- well as its historical funding levels and subcritical fission fuel. The fuel could be gram with NNSA meant to extend OFES’ its funding of women and underrepre- present program to other areas of funda- sented minorities. He then discussed mental HEDLP science, including labora- plasma physics’ role within PHY. Plasma Plasma Science Committee tory astrophysics. He also noted that OFES physics received $2.372M in FY08 and is is preparing a 15-20 page Strategic Plan sub- program in the AMOP Program. He Paul Bellan, California Institute of Outlook to submit to Congress, that it will guessed that plasma physics might receive Technology Michael R. Brown, Swarthmore College conduct three Research Needs Workshops a substantial boost in funding in FY09. Patrick L. Colestock, Los Alamos National patterned after the BES activity of the same Next, William Tang from Princeton’s Laboratory name. Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) dis- Jeffrey Freidberg, Massachusetts Institute of The next talk was delivered by Chris cussed advanced computing for plasma Technology Deeney, Director of the Office of Inertial science research. He noted that whereas S. Gail Glendinning, Lawrence Livermore Confinement Fusion in NNSA. He began the critical physics issues for fusion come National Laboratory by discussing HEDP science within NNSA, from “gaps analysis” of the most needed Jeffrey Hopwood, Tufts University commenting that the three largest HEDP predictive capabilities from advanced Chandrashekhar Joshi, University of facilities are operated by the Administra- scientific codes that traditional theory or California at Los Angeles tion (Z, OMEGA, and NIF). He also stated experiment, by themselves, cannot readily Michael Mauel, Columbia University that NIF will soon be operational in 2009. deliver, the critical computational issues George Morales, University of California at He then spoke about a FESAC HEDLP come from “gaps analysis” of capabilities Los Angeles Margaret Murnane, University of Colorado report that identified numerous research missing from current state-of-art tools at Boulder opportunities that should be supported, to effectively utilize advanced computing Amy Wendt, University of Wisconsin at such as High energy density hydrodynam- facilities for dealing with critical scientific Madison ics, Magnetized high energy density plas- issues. There are some major challenges BPA News · Summer 2009 7 one of many fertile or fissile materials, in- presented on Plasmatron Reformer Tech- OFES-NNSA program should support cluding thorium, light-water reactor spent nology, an onboard plasma fuel conversion fundamental and energy-related HEDLP nuclear fuel, weapons-grade plutonium, for vehicular applications that produced science by leveraging access to NNSA facili- highly enriched uranium, and natural and H2-rich gas. ties., and then made several recommenda- depleted uranium. Next, Riccardo Betti, Chair of the tions regarding the stewardship and techni- Daniel Cohn from MIT gave a talk on PLSC, presented the outcomes from the cal aspects of that program. The report then Plasma applications for clean fuels and FESAC HEDLP subpanel charged with laid out a three-phase scientific plan for vehicles. He spoke specifically on two top- “identifying the compelling scientific op- energy-related HEDLP research. The report ics: the conversion of waste to clean fuels, portunities for research in the field, identi- is available at URL http://www.science.doe. and onboard conversion of fuel for clean, fying the scientific issues of implosion and gov/ofes/FESAC-HEDLP-REPORT.pdf. high efficiency vehicles. He discussed the target design that need to be addressed to The last discussion of the day was led MIT Plasma Waste Treatment Technol- make the case for inertial fusion energy, ” by Michael Holland, OMB DOE Budget ogy that uses a plasma furnace to convert providing background for a specific plan Examiner. Dr. Holland discussed the role of waste into H2-rhc gas and glass. He then for energy related HEDLP studies,” and OMB is the budget process, and specifically discussed the “garbage to alcohol fuel sys- identifying. the gaps in knowledge and how it relates to the DOE Office of Science. tem,” that uses a combination of existing opportunities for energy related HEDLP. He reported that the agency will continue technologies (conventional gasifer, plasma The panel identified 6 areas of fundamen- to work on FY10 budgets and focus on cost enhanced melter, catalyst system) to tal HEDLP science that offer interesting realism while executing the Administration’s produce liquid fuels from municipal waste research opportunities. The report made commitment to significantly increase spend- using plasma-melter gasification. He also a general recommendation that the joint ing on the physical sciences. ■

Highlights of the Spring Meeting of the tional Telecommunications and Informa- tion Administration’s Office of Spectrum Committee on Radio Frequencies Management provided a helpful briefing David B. Lang, BPA Staff on the World Radiocommunication Con- ference (WRC) process, both domestic and he Committee on Radio held its ficult to find quiet spectrum. He further international. She walked the committee spring 2009 meeting at the Keck noted as potential future issues ultrawide- through the process from technical prepa- TCenter of the National Academies band vehicle collision avoidance radars, rations to the WRC itself. on May 27-28, 2009 in Washington, DC. broadband over power lines, and space Andrew Clegg from the NSF’s Spec- The meeting was opened with a welcome solar power satellites. trum Management Office delivered a to the members and guests present by Next, Ron Repasi from the FCC dis- presentation on the complex process sur- CORF Chair, Jeff Piepmeier, NASA-God- cussed several items of interest at the FCC rounding spectrum allocations. In particu- dard Space Flight Center. that are of interest to CORF. He spoke lar, he noted that radio spectrum alloca- Tasso Tzioumis, Chair of the Radio about satellite communications such as tions in the U.S. are the result of rules and Astronomy Frequency Committee in the Earth stations on vessels, vehicle-mounted regulations promulgated by the NTIA (for Asia-Pacific region (RAFCAP) discussed Earth stations, and aeronautical mobile- Federal government users) and the FCC by teleconference RAFCAP’s charge and satellite service. He also hit on terrestrial (for all others), that the ITU develops composition, radio astronomy (RAS) communications for public safety use at spectrum allocations on a worldwide basis, facilities in the region, and relevant re- 4940-4990 MHz. Mr. Repasi went on to which may or may not be adopted by an gional spectrum issues. RAFCAP is the discuss unlicensed operations and FCC individual country, that every frequency ITU Region 3 committee that acts as the preparations for the WRC-12. He conclud- between 9 kHz and 275 GHz is allocated to scientific expert on frequency issues for ed by suggesting how CORF might be able one or more of the 26 defined radio ser- RAS and related sciences in the region. He to help the FCC by continuing to monitor vices, and that footnotes to the allocation discussed the extensive RAS facilities in FCC rulemakings, participating in WRC- table add important information to what’s the region, totaling 50 in all. Dr. Tzioumis 07 implementation, reviewing the regis- presented in the table itself. noted special issues that low-frequency tration process for radio observatories, Tom Gergely from the NSF’s Spectrum RAS facilities face now and in the future. and briefing FCC staff on RAS and Earth Management Office then discussed NSF In particular, these bands are heavily used Exploration Remote Sensing (EESS). for communications and so it will be dif- Darlene Drazenovich from the Na- See “CORF Meeting” on page 10 8 BPA News · Summer 2009 BPA Recent Reports Caryn Joy Knutsen, Editor The Board on Physics and Astronomy releases several reports each year. Below are short descriptions of reports released in 2008 and 2009.

Frontiers in Crystalline Matter: From Discovery to Technology (April 2009) For much of the past 60 years, the U.S. research community domi- nated the discovery of new crystalline materials and the growth of large single crystals, placing the country at the forefront of fundamental advances in condensed-matter sciences and fueling the development of many of the new technologies at the core of U.S. economic growth. The opportunities offered by future developments in this field remain as promising as the achievements of the past. However, the past 20 years have seen a substantial deterioration in the United States’ capability to pursue those opportunities at a time when several European and Asian countries have significantly increased investments in developing their own capacities in these areas. This book seeks both to set out the chal- lenges and opportunities facing those who discover new crystalline ma- terials and grow large crystals and to chart a way for the United States to reinvigorate its efforts and thereby return to a position of leadership in this field. Scientific Assessment of High-Power Free-Electron Laser Technology (December 2008) This book presents a scientific assessment of free-electron-laser technology for naval applications. The charge from the Office of Naval Research was to assess whether the desired performance capabilities are achievable or whether fundamental limitations will prevent them from being realized. The present study identifies the highest-priority scientific and tech- nical issues that must be resolved along the development path to achieve a megawatt-class free-electron laser. In accordance with the charge, the committee considered (and briefly describes) trade-offs between free- electron lasers and other types of lasers and weapon systems to show the advantages free-electron lasers offer over other types of systems for naval applications as well as their drawbacks. The primary advantages of free-electron lasers are associated with their energy delivery at the speed of light, selectable wavelength, and all- electric nature, while the trade-offs for free-electron lasers are their size, complexity, and relative robustness. Also, Despite the significant tech- nical progress made in the development of high-average-power free- electron lasers, difficult technical challenges remain to be addressed in order to advance from present capability to megawatt-class power levels. BPA News · Summer 2009 9

A Review of the DOE Plan for U.S. Fusion Community Participation in the ITER Program (July 2008) ITER presents the United States and its international partners with the opportunity to explore new and exciting frontiers of plasma science while bringing the promise of fusion energy closer to reality. The ITER project has garnered the commitment and will draw on the scientific potential of seven international partners, China, the European Union, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Russia, and the United States, coun- tries that represent more than half of the world’s population. The success of ITER will depend on each partner’s ability to fully engage itself in the scientific and technological challenges posed by advancing our under- standing of fusion. In this book, the National Research Council assesses the current U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plan for U.S. fusion community partici- pation in ITER, evaluates the plan’s elements, and recommends ap- propriate goals, procedures, and metrics for consideration in the future development of the plan. Inspired by Biology: From Molecules to Materials to Machines (June 2008) Scientists have long desired to create synthetic systems that func- tion with the precision and efficiency of biological systems. Using new techniques, researchers are now uncovering principles that could allow the creation of synthetic materials that can perform tasks as precise as biological systems. To assess the current work and future promise of the biology-materials science intersection, the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation asked the NRC to identify the most compelling questions and opportunities at this interface, suggest strategies to address them, and consider connections with national priorities such as healthcare and economic growth. This book presents a discussion of principles governing biomaterial design, a description of advanced materials for selected functions such as energy and national security, an assessment of biomolecular materials research tools, and an examination of infrastructure and resources for bridging biological and materials science. 10 BPA News · Summer 2009 preparations for the upcoming WRC-12 David McGinnes, the NOAA/NESDIS H-line. He then spoke about four current and Agenda Items (AI) relevant to RAS. Frequency Manager, discussed spectrum EOR experiments: the Murchison Wide- He noted that AI 1.6 was particularly im- activity and WRC-11 Agenda Items of field Array, the Precision Array to Probe portant for the science services, as it would interest to NOAA. He focused on AI 1.2, Epoch of Reionization, the Cosmological play a significant role in determining AI 1.3 (spectrum for safe operation of un- Re-Ionization Experiment, and the Experi- future allocations between 275-3,000 GHz. manned aircraft systems), AI 1.5 (harmo- ment to Detect Global EOR Step. John Zuzek, NASA’s Remote Sensing nization of spectrum for electronic news On the second day CORF spent the Spectrum Manager discussed WRC-11 gathering), AI 1.6, AI 1.8 (technical and majority of its time discussing its response issues and objectives, and domestic con- regulatory issues for fixed service between to NASA and NSF’s request for the com- cerns. He noted of primary concern to 71 and 238 GHz), AI 1.15 (possible alloca- mittee to produce a “Views” document NASA AI 1.6 (passive uses of the spec- tions in 3-50 MHz to radiolocation service that identifies and discussed WRC-12 AIs trum from 275-3000 GHz), AI 1.11 (new for oceanographic radar applications), AI relevant to RAS and EESS. ■ primary allocation to the space research 1.16 (passive lightning detection), AI 1.19 service (EàS) at 22.55-23.15 GHz), AI 1.12 (regulatory measures for software-defined (protection of primary services in 37-38 radio and cognitive radio systems), AI Committee on Radio Frequencies GHz from AMSS, AI 8.1.1(c) (improving 1.20 (spectrum for High Altitude Platform the recognition of the essential role and Stations (HAPS) in 5850-7075 MHz), AI Jeffrey Piepmeier, Chair, NASA Goddard global importance of Earth observation 1.22 (effect of emissions from short-range Space Flight Center Douglas C.-J. Bock, Vice Chair, University applications), and AI 8.2 (future WRC devices on radiocommunication services), of California at Berkeley / Combined Agenda Items for the 2015 WRC and and AI 1.24 (extension of current NGSO Array for Research in Millimeter-wave beyond). Dr. Zuzek further noted that an space-to-Earth Metsat allocation in 7750- Astronomy important domestic issue for NASA is that 7850 MHz). Ana P. Barros, Duke University three upcoming NASA remote sensing Alan Rogers, a CORF member, deliv- Steven W. Ellingson, Virginia Tech missions will use the 1215-1300 MHz band ered a presentation on instruments for David G. Long, Brigham Young University for active sensing applications, and the studying the Epoch of Reionization (EOR), Darren McKague, University of Michigan FAA and Air Force operate important air the period of time in the early James M. Moran, Harvard-Smithsonian surveillance radars in this band and these during which matter was slowly reionized. Center for Astrophysics active sensing instruments could poten- Most instruments being built are looking Melinda Piket-May, University of Colorado tially cause harmful interference to these for spatial structure of the redshifted 21 at Boulder radars. cm emission/absorption hydrogen line at Alan E.E. Rogers, Massachusetts Institute of Technology/Haystack Observatory Carrie Stokes from USAID delivered z~8.5. Dr. Rogers noted that the power- Steven C. Reising, Colorado State University a presentation on her office’s efforts to ful Orbcomm satellite downlink signal at Lucy Ziurys, University of Arizona promulgate remote sensing information to 137-138 MHz is near the redshifted 21cm developing countries through its service, SERVIR.net. SERVIR provides a variety of geospatial information such as can be used for monitoring fires, algal blooms, SSB Releases America’s Future in Space Report nowcasting, land cover changes, air qual- ity, cloud forest, climate change, and for David B. Lang, BPA Staff international boundary disputes. SERVIR is very active in Central America and seeks he Space Studies Board recently the U.S. space program was driven by op- to expand into Africa. convened the Committee on the portunities to serve national interests in a Paul Feldman, CORF Consultant, next TRationale and Goals of the U.S. geopolitical environment heavily colored discussed several FCC activities of interest Civil Space Program to advise the nation by Cold War threats and fears. Originally, to CORF. He spoke on unlicensed opera- on key goals and critical issues in 21st the true potential of space activities was tions in television bands broadband over century U.S. civil space policy. The com- largely speculative. In the ensuing decades, power lines, Ku-band developments con- mittee’s report, America’s Future in Space: however, early expectations for discovery cerning VMES, 4.9 GHz microwave fixed Aligning the Civil Space Program with Na- and technological accomplishment have links, a modification to the GlobalStar/ tional Need, was released on July 7, 2009. been richly exceeded. Without a doubt, the Iridium L-band licenses, the MedRadio The introductory text from the Summary first 50 years of the space age have been service at 401-406 MHz, and the Spectrum of this report is reproduced below. transformative. Astronauts have stood Inventory Act bill introduced in the Senate. From its inception in 1958, much of on Earth’s moon while millions watched. BPA News · Summer 2009 11

Commercial communications and remote require our best efforts to understand and arctic sea ice, mapped the circulation of sensing satellites have become part of the resolve—from terrorism to climate change the world’s oceans, enabled the creation basic infrastructure of the world. Satellites to demand for energy—are also global in of quantitative three-dimensional data support worldwide communications, pro- nature and must be addressed through sets to improve the quality of hurricane viding a critical backbone for daily com- mutual worldwide action. In the judgment forecasting, and created new tools to ad- merce—carrying billions of global finan- of the Committee on the Rationale and dress a host of agricultural, coastal, and cial transactions daily, for example. Direct Goals of the U.S. Civil Space Program, the urban resource management problems, to broadcasting beams television signals into ability to operate from, through, and in cite only a few examples. Such capabili- homes globally, delivering images that space will be a key component of potential ties demonstrate what can be achieved bring unprecedented awareness of events solutions to 21st century challenges. As it when technologically challenging space occurring throughout the world. Mili- has before, with the necessary alignment problems stimulate innovation that leads tary global positioning satellites provide to achieve clearly articulated national to long-term advances with applications ubiquitous signals that support a stunning priorities, the U.S. civil space program can beyond the space sector. Civil space activi- variety of services, from assisting in the serve the nation effectively in this new and ties are central to the R&D enterprise of navigation of civilian airplanes, shipping, demanding environment. the nation, often in a transformational way, and automobiles to transmitting timing In its initial discussions, the committee and thus present powerful opportunities to signals that enable cell phone and power concluded that debates about the direction help address major national objectives. grid switching. Remote sensing satellites of the civil space program have too often Observations from space offering obtain high-resolution images of Earth’s focused on addressing near-term problems unique capabilities for global environmen- surface, available now on the Internet for and issues without first putting those issues tal and land-use monitoring are essential people worldwide to view and use, and in the context of how a disciplined space to informed decision making about energy provide critical information to monitor program can serve larger national impera- production and climate change policies, changes in our climate and their effects. tives. In the committee’s view, character- and they help provide the understanding Our understanding of every aspect of izing the top-level goals of the civil space required for wise management. The high the cosmos has been profoundly altered, program and the connection between visibility of space activities attracts stu- and in the view of many, we stand once those goals and broad national priorities dents’ attention to science, technology, and again at the brink of a new era. Space is necessary as a foundation on which the mathematics, and space activities are an observations have mapped the remnant nation (both now and in the future) can exciting focus for teaching those subjects. radiation from the Big Bang that began devise sustainable solutions to nearer-term Commercial space-related ventures now our universe. We have discovered that the issues. Therefore, the committee focused figure significantly in global economic expansion of the universe continues to on the long-term, strategic value of the competitiveness, and, while government accelerate, driven by a force that we do not U.S. civil space program, and its report investments to stimulate the nation’s fragile yet understand, and that there are large does not address nearer-term issues that economy will have short-term impacts, amounts of matter in the universe that we affect the conduct of U.S. space activities R&D investments can be counted on to cannot yet observe. We have seen galaxies other than to provide a context in which make longer-term sustainable contribu- forming at the beginning of the universe more tactical decisions might be made. tions to the nation’s economic strength. and stars forming in our own galaxy. We The national priorities that informed As has countless times proved the case, have explored the wonders that abound in the committee’s thinking include ensur- research in and from space will continue our solar system and have found locations ing national security, providing clean to lead to important future, and not always where life might have occurred or might and affordable energy, protecting the currently predictable, benefits that hold even now be present. We have discovered environment now and for future genera- the promise of progress toward realizing planets around other stars, so many that tions, educating an engaged citizenry and U.S. as well as shared international goals. it is ever more likely that there are other a capable workforce for the 21st century, The committee’s overall conclusion Earths comparable to our own. sustaining global economic competitive- is that a preeminent U.S. civil space What will the next 50 years bring? ness, and working internationally to build program with strengths and capabilities Today we live in a globalized world of a safer, more sustainable world. A common aligned for tackling widely acknowledged societies and nations characterized by in- element across all these urgent priorities national challenges—environmental, tertwined economies, trade commitments, is the significant part that research and economic, and strategic—will continue to and international security agreements. development can play in solving problems make major contributions to the nation’s Mutual dependencies are much more and advancing the national enterprise welfare. pervasive and important than ever before. in each area. Instruments in space have Many of the pressing problems that now documented an accelerating decline in See “Space Future Report” on page 15 12 BPA News · Summer 2009

At small and medium-size facilities, fac- and technology opportunities, the latter Crystal Growth tors such as computer-assisted automa- through intellectual ownership. (continued from page 1) tion, new spectroscopies such as scanning Despite the promises offered in this probes, and the commercialization of field, DGCM research in the United States research laboratories. Research in DGCM diagnostic techniques have played a large today is substantially weaker than it was covers subject matter such as electronic, role in driving demand for new materials. 20 years ago. The large industrial labora- magnetic, optical, and structural phenom- At the large national laboratories, sev- tories that historically led the nation in ena. This diversity notwithstanding, there eral new U.S. synchrotron x-ray sources discovering new materials and in develop- is a clear identity associated with research- have been built, and new capabilities in ing techniques for growing pure crystals ers involved in DGCM. As can be seen neutron scattering have been installed at no longer engage in these activities to a from the attendance at scientific confer- the National Institute of Standards and significant degree. DGCM research also ences in this area, it is a fairly small com- Technology (NIST) and at the Oak Ridge has not found a “natural” home in the munity, with exacting and specific techni- National Laboratory. In addition, the academic world in the United States. The cal needs and educational requirements. National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, nature of the work is inherently multi- While academia, the national laborato- which opened in 1994, represents new disciplinary and does not readily fit into ries, and private industry all have impor- capabilities in high magnetic field research, the traditional, departmental structure of tant roles in this field, industrial research including a unique capability for studying U.S. universities. Further, the start-up and laboratories historically have provided a the energy states of electrons in crystalline operating costs of a DGCM researcher can particularly critical environment for the metals. These facilities represent some of be significantly higher than those of the flourishing of DGCM activities. There, the best characterization facilities in the typical university single investigator. Con- technological advancement in sectors such world, creating opportunities to study, in sequently, despite fundamental discoveries as the semiconductor industry, optical great detail, novel magnetic, electrical, and by DGCM researchers that have led to the communications, and displays has required structural properties of materials for which establishment of entirely new subfields not only applied research to improve the large single crystals are available. However, in condensed-matter physics, materials performance of materials such as silicon, balance is needed between supporting the glass, and liquid crystals, but also basic development of world-class characteriza- research into their fundamental properties. tion facilities and supporting the best MSAC Committee Advances made in DGCM in these labora- materials growth; simply put, using the Paul S. Peercy, Chair, University of tories were the consequence of a continual best neutron scattering facility in the world Wisconsin at Madison interplay between device development and with suboptimal samples will engender Collin L. Broholm, The Johns Hopkins basic research in physics and chemistry as suboptimal results. University well as close contact among the relevant The excitement and the promise of Robert J. Cava, Princeton University technical communities—the material scien- DGCM-based research already have been James R. Chelikowsky, University of Texas tists, the crystal growers, and the develop- reflected in major initiatives abroad. For at Austin ers of technical devices. This environment example, through projects such as Explor- Zachary Fisk, University of California at also served as a critical training ground, atory Research for Advanced Technology Irvine where the specialized techniques needed (ERATO), Japan now leads in the growth Patrick D. Gallagher, National Institute of for success were passed on to new genera- of strongly correlated oxides and organics Standards and Technology tions of crystal growers. both in bulk and thin-film form. China Laura H. Greene, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Almost a century after the discovery of has significantly increased its commitment Eric D. Isaacs, Argonne National Laboratory Bragg’s law, by which x-rays scattered from to develop expertise in crystal growth and Peter B. Littlewood, University of crystalline matter were used to establish basic materials research. And in certain Cambridge its periodic structure, DGCM research not areas such as ferroelectric crystals for Laurie E. McNeil, University of North only has a strong legacy of foundational information storage and actuator applica- Carolina at Chapel Hill discovery but also retains great intellec- tions, China has developed the capability Joel S. Miller, University of Utah tual vitality, high technological relevance, to produce large single crystals not cur- Loren Pfeiffer, Bell Labs, Alcatel-Lucent and seemingly unending promise for rently available in the United States. The Ramamoorthy Ramesh, University of discovery. The demand for crystals and importance of international competition California at Berkeley new materials remains strong. The past extends beyond national pride, however. Arthur P. Ramirez, Bell Labs, Alcatel-Lucent 20 years have witnessed great advances in Historically, those institutions that develop Hidenori Takagi, University of Tokyo measurement capabilities in the United new materials are the ones with the best Dan J. Thoma, Los Alamos National Laboratory States across the whole range of facilities. chance to exploit the resulting science BPA News · Summer 2009 13 science, and chemistry, the presence of will enable broad research efforts. Pro- In order for the United States to have a these researchers in U.S. universities is low. grams funded through such an initiative strong and sustainable effort in the discov- The net result of industrial laboratories’ no would range from small-scale equipment ery and growth of crystalline materials, longer engaging in DGCM research and run by single investigators to large-scale, federal agencies should develop programs the low level of research in the academic centralized facilities for the discovery, and policies that focus on providing the sector is that scientists and engineers in the growth, and characterization of crystalline specific and often unique education and United States face significant constraints materials, a range necessary to address the training needed for those engaged in because of inadequate access to crystals for spectrum of research needs of this field. discovering new crystalline materials scientific research and technology develop- and synthesizing large crystals. Special ment, which frequently puts them, and the Recommendation 2: attention should be given to developing United States in general, at a competitive Develop discovery and growth of federally funded programs that encourage disadvantage. crystalline materials “centers of expertise.” academic organizations to prepare cross- disciplinary curricula and opportunities Recommendations Funding should be provided for one or for educating the United States’ next gen- In response to its charge to assess this more “centers of expertise” that are capable eration of DGCM scientists. research area, identify future opportunities, of addressing the broadscale issues arising and recommend strategies to enhance op- in the DGCM area. Centers have a role Recommendation 4: portunities in the United States, the commit- that cannot be filled by small programs. Promote cultural changes to develop tee concludes that DGCM remains a criti- In contrast to small programs, centers and solidify academic programs in the cally important area in condensed-matter can provide the infrastructure needed to field of the discovery and growth of research, and because of a change in the house specialized facilities and the robust crystalline materials. landscape in the United States, the contin- multidisciplinary environment needed for ued competitiveness of the United States in cutting-edge materials development. The The culture of U.S. science, as cur- this field requires that concrete and substan- purpose of these centers would be to ad- rently promulgated in the departmental or tive steps be taken. The steps recommended dress a range of problems, including those discipline-centric environment of universi- by this committee are as follows. requiring large-scale facilities, facilities ties, frequently does not reward DGCM for using toxic chemicals, and facilities synthesis research as much as it rewards Recommendation 1: requiring significant technical support. measurement science. In order for the Develop a focused, multiagency In addition, the mission of one or more United States to have a strong and sustain- initiative to strengthen U.S. efforts centers should be to address problems of able effort in the discovery and growth to discover and grow new crystalline crystal growth of immediate interest to of crystalline materials, federal agencies materials. U.S. industry. Working on a cost-recov- should develop programs and policies ery basis, these industry-oriented centers that make it attractive for universities in Crystalline materials research impacts would be responsible for forming strong the United States to hire crystal growers a broad set of technologies encompassing industrial partnerships, engaging in tech- and promote robust research programs energy, defense, information, communi- nology development with their industrial in this area by providing ample funding cations, and industrial standards, and it partners, and maintaining the expertise specifically for such work. The committee straddles a number of traditional academic and infrastructure needed for industrial specifically urges that more crystal grow- disciplines such as chemistry, materials crystal growth. These centers also should ers be hired into tenure-track positions at science, and physics. Thus, an initiative support a small number of education and universities. for establishing and sustaining programs training programs that explicitly address specifically directed toward driving the the discovery and growth of crystalline Recommendation 5: discovery and synthesis of new crystalline materials and should complement the Develop a network approach for materials should be coordinated among university-based education in DGCM ad- research-enhancing collaborative agencies that fund research in these areas, dressed below in Recommendation 3. efforts in the discovery and growth of including the National Science Foundation, crystalline materials while preserving the Department of Energy, the Department Recommendation 3: intellectual ownership. of Defense, and the Department of Com- Develop and sustain programs merce (NIST). The broad goals of such an specifically designed to strengthen and New approaches to communication are initiative should be to establish crosscutting sustain education and training in the needed to advance the field of discovery synthesis capabilities, educational thrusts, field of the discovery and growth of and openly available cyber resources that crystalline materials. See “Crystal Growth” on page 12 14 BPA News · Summer 2009 and growth of crystalline materials. The in- (2) input from the proponents of research Astro2010 Progress ternal collaboration common in industrial activities, and (3) independent cost and laboratories formerly engaged in DGCM (continued from page 1) technical readiness assessments. activities greatly aided the development of materials by providing rapid responses to concluded their third and final meeting Infrastructure Study Groups Update synthesis needs as well as rapid feedback and are preparing reports for NRC review. The six ISGs have read the position from measurement to synthesis. A simi- papers and amassed a very large quantity Program Prioritization Panels Update lar approach to communication among of information and data for the survey researchers should be promoted through In April 2009 approximately 60 panel panels and committee to consider. Follow- programmatic means by the federal agen- members were appointed to the four ing the ISG chairs’ presentation of interim cies. The committee envisions a “DGCM Astro2010 PPPs. These four panels moved findings at the jamboree meeting, the ISGs network” as a novel approach to scientific forward quickly in their task, holding their collaboration that would both fulfill con- first meetings at the at the “jamboree.” ventional needs for greater communication There, the panels received draft interim Astro2010 Survey Committee and enable the new modes of collabora- reports from the five SFP chairs, as well Roger D. Blandford, Chair, Stanford tion afforded by cyber infrastructure. The as hearing interim reports from the ISG University envisioned DGCM network would provide chairs. The lively science discussions at the Martha Haynes, Vice Chair – Science a virtual forum for organizing synthesis jamboree were a useful first step for the Frontiers, Cornell University efforts, crystal growers would be able to an- PPPs to begin their analysis of the pro- John P. Huchra, Vice Chair – State of the nounce the availability of new compounds, grammatic aspects of the survey. Profession, Harvard University and a measurer would be able to request Having considered the responses Marcia Rieke, Vice Chair – Program collaboration with a crystal grower to meet from research activity proponents to the Prioritization, University of Arizona the measurer’s need for a specific sample. survey’s first Request for Information—as Lynne Hillenbrand, Executive Officer, California Institute of Technology The envisioned DGCM network would also well as drawing on community-written Steven Battel, Battel Engineering provide access to information in the physi- white papers on computation, laboratory Lars Bildsten, University of California, Santa astrophysics, technology development and cal archive of already-synthesized samples Barbara stored in individual laboratories through- theory—the PPPs issued invitations to John E. Carlstrom, The University of Chicago out the country, further enabling collabo- various activities to present at the panels’ Debra Elmegreen, Vassar College rations. At the same time, policies and second meetings. The PPPs also requested Joshua Frieman, Fermi National Accelerator procedures for participating in the network further written input from several other Laboratory would be designed to enhance collabora- activity teams. The responses to the Re- Fiona Harrison, California Institute of tive work while protecting the intellectual quests for Information were used by the Technology contributions of researchers who discover Program Prioritization Panels to make Timothy Heckman, Johns Hopkins or develop novel crystalline materials. ■ an evaluation of each proposed activity’s University state of maturity and scale, and at the open Robert Kennicutt, University of Cambridge sessions of their June 2009 Meetings in Jonathan Lunine, University of Arizona Claire Max, University of California, Santa Pasadena, CA each panel heard invited Cruz talks from some of the activities for which Upcoming Board and Daniel McCammon, University of Committee Meetings additional information was requested. The Wisconsin Board on Physics and Astronomy June Meetings were co-located with the Steven Ritz, SCIPP, University of California, June meeting of the American Astronomi- November 7-8, 2009 Santa Cruz cal Society which facilitated the participa- Juri Toomre, University of Colorado Committee on Atomic, Molecular, tion of the broader research community in Scott Tremaine, Institute for Advanced and Optical Sciences the Astro2010 process. Study December 12-13, 2009 The PPPs continue to solicit further Michael S. Turner, The University of Astro2010 Survey information and data from research activi- Chicago Committee Meeting ties as they consider their charge to rec- Neil deGrasse Tyson, Hayden Planetarium, January 25-27, 2010 ommend a prioritized program of federal American Museum of Natural History Paul Vanden Bout, National Radio Astro2010 Survey investment in research activities while Astronomy Observatory Committee Meeting drawing on several sources of informa- Thomas Young, Lockheed Martin February 28-March 2, 2010 tion: (1) the science forefronts identified Corporation (Retired) by the Astro2010 science frontiers panels, BPA News · Summer 2009 15 will complete their reports this summer. mittee, Panels, and Study Groups to ad- BPA Spring Meeting The confidential summary reports will be dress. The survey committee appreciates all distributed to the panels and the survey who took time out of their busy schedules (continued from page 3) committee as input into their deliberations to organize and report on these meetings! cept of dark energy arose and how its and final reports. existence and amount affects studies of Survey Committee Update the universe. He discussed how cosmic Community Input Update While the panels have been hard at acceleration was discovered, how it led to Astro2010 received over 600 hundred work, the survey committee and its sub- the dark energy theory, how the model papers in response to the various calls for committees continue to meet in weekly has been tested using supernovae at input: over 90 Activity Notices of Inter- plenary sessions by telephone. The survey redshifts less than z=1.0, how the Hubble est, over 300 Science White Papers, 69 committee will meet for its fourth meeting constant can be used as a complementary State of the Profession Position Papers, 62 on October 4-6, 2009 in Washington, DC, probe of dark energy, and finally what the Technology Development White Papers, followed by its fifth meeting on January next generation of scientific probes of the 8 Theory, Computation, and Laboratory 25-27, 2009 in Irvine, CA. The main rec- model might look like. Astrophysics White Papers, and over 100 ommendations of the survey committee’s Lastly, Astro2010 Survey Chair Roger Requests for Information from Activities. report will be under consideration at these Blandford (Stanford) gave an overview The survey committee greatly appreciates meetings. The PPP chairs will provide of the survey’s progress, including the all those who have put so much thought confidential interim reports of their panels’ formation of three subcommittees, nine and effort into the Astro2010 solicitations! conclusions and recommendations to the NRC-appointed panels, and six indepen- Numerous highly successful com- survey committee at the October meeting. dent study groups. He also highlighted the munity-led Town Halls were conducted at An open session is expected to be held on efforts to engage the larger community universities and institutions all across the October 5th and an agenda will be posted through various requests for white papers. county. Reports from these meetings can online. The final survey report is still on Then, Dr. Blandford reviewed the timeline be downloaded in PDF form as available track to be released in the summer of 2010. and preparations for several [then] upcom- from the Astro2010 web site (www.nation- Survey and committee membership ing meetings involving the four program alacademies.org/astro2010). The results of rosters are available on the Astro2010 prioritization panels, including one held the town halls have raised new and more web site, www.nationalacademies.org/ concurrently with the 214th AAS meeting clearly articulated questions for the Com- astro2010. ■ in Pasadena, CA in June 2009. The next board meeting is to take place at the Beckman Center of the National Academies in Irvine, CA on November Astro2010 Fall/Winter Events 7-8, 2009. ■ September 2009* • September 4-7, 2009, PPP: Radio, Millimeter and Submillimeter Astronomy from the Ground: Third Meeting (Woods Hole, MA) Space Future Report • September 17-19, 2009, PPP: Particle Astrophysics and Gravitation: Third (continued from page 11) Meeting (Woods Hole, MA) • September 23-25, 2009, PPP: Electromagnetic Observations from Space: The report identifies six strategic goals Third Meeting (Washington, DC) that it regards as basic for guiding program October 2009* choices and resources planning for U.S. • October 4-6, 2009, Fourth meeting of the Survey Committee (Washington, civil space activities, four foundational DC) elements critical to a purposeful, effective, January 2010 strategic U.S. space program, and seven • January 25-27, 2009, Fifth meeting of the Survey Committee (Irvine, CA) overarching recommendations to align the February 2010 components of the civil space program in • February 28-March 2, 2010, Sixth meeting of the Survey Committee (Irvine, order to fully capitalize on opportunities CA) to serve the larger national interest. The * The Astro2010 survey committee and the PPPs held meetings in September and October and full text of the report is available at the these will be covered in a future issue of “Issues in Physics & Astronomy.” National Academies Press website at URL http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_ id=12701. ■ Board on Physics and Astronomy The National Academies U.S. Postage Keck Center WS923 PAID 500 Fifth Street, N.W. PERMIT 0123 Washington, DC 20001 SOUTHERN MD

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