TAUVEX---UV observations from geosynchronous orbit

Abstract

The T Observatory consists of three identical co-aligned telescopes operating in several bands in the 1200-3500, rmAA bandpass from geostationary orbit. The major science objectives of T are (a) searches for QSOs and AGNs based on their UV properties, (b) surface photometry of galaxies in the UV, (c) studies of stars and nebulae within the Galaxy, (d) the nature of the UV background, and (d) studies of variable sources in the UV domain. The Principal Investigators and T Science Team have created a coherent observing programme to address several key science objectives that will constitute the Core Science Programme projects. Along with this project, which will contribute up to 85% of observing time, the Science and Core Group teams have identified a small number of more modest programmes to pursue. We present a description of the T mission, including details of the instrument design and its estimated performance, assess the status of the mission development and describe in brief the main research categories. Additional information on the T programme and development can be obtained on the World Wide Web at http://tauvex.iiap.res.in.