Windows On The Universe: The Era Of Multi-Messenger Astrophysics

The "Windows on the Universe: The Era of Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (WoU-MMA)" is a grant program initiated by the National Science Foundation (NSF), a federal agency focused on promoting the progress of science across a range of disciplines. This program leverages the capabilities of the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS) through its Divisions of Physics (PHY) and Astronomical Sciences (AST), as well as the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) within the Directorate for Geosciences (GEO). It supports a new era of astrophysical research that integrates data and insights from diverse messengers, including electromagnetic waves, high-energy particles such as neutrinos and cosmic rays, and gravitational waves. The WoU-MMA program is designed to advance the interoperability of astrophysical studies that make use of these different observational messengers. The goal is to create synergy among theoretical, experimental, and observational research in order to deepen understanding of the universe. The program accepts proposals in three main areas: coordination of multi-messenger observations, direct observations of phenomena that produce more than one type of messenger, and interpretation through theoretical modeling, simulations, and experimental activities that support multi-messenger discoveries. Proposals should emphasize integrated strategies across these domains and prioritize multi-disciplinary collaborations. This grant opportunity is not intended to replace existing funding mechanisms for individual areas of astrophysics. Instead, it supports proposals with a dedicated focus on cross-messenger collaboration that align with WoU-MMA goals. Successful applications must directly address at least one of the three program criteria—coordination, observation, or interpretation—and should include “WoU-MMA:” in the proposal title for consideration under this funding stream. Proposals that do not meet this requirement will be evaluated only under the program to which they were submitted. Eligible applicants should submit their proposals through the appropriate NSF programs as listed under the “Related Programs” section of the announcement. These include, but are not limited to, Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Grants, Plasma Physics, and Particle Astrophysics. Each related program has its own submission window and deadline. Proposals should be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov, following the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and the specific program guidelines associated with each relevant division. Proposal deadlines vary by program and are typically aligned with an annual cycle. For instance, Astronomy and Astrophysics proposals are due on the third Monday in November each year, and Particle Astrophysics proposals are due on the first or second Tuesday in December annually. Programs with a submission window, such as the general WoU-MMA initiative, accept applications between October 1 and November 15 each year. Applicants should be mindful of their specific program's submission dates and ensure timely compliance with all relevant application requirements. For questions or guidance, applicants are encouraged to reach out to designated NSF program officers. Contacts include Hans A. Krimm (hkrimm@nsf.gov, 703-292-2761), Nigel A. Sharp (nsharp@nsf.gov, 703-292-4905), and Martin D. Still (mstill@nsf.gov, 703-292-4290) from MPS/AST; Vyacheslav Lukin (vlukin@nsf.gov, 703-292-7382) and Pedro Marronetti (pmarrone@nsf.gov, 703-292-7372) from MPS/PHY; and Vladimir Papitashvili (vpapita@nsf.gov, 703-292-7425) from GEO/OPP. Potential applicants are also advised to consult the respective program guidelines and links for detailed information about eligibility, scope, and expectations.