Gamma-ray Astrophysics with the Space Detector AGILE

AGILE is a Scientific Mission of the Italian Space Agency (ASI) with INFN, IASF/INAF e CIFS participation devoted to gamma-ray astrophysics. It is a first and unique combination of a gamma-ray and an X-ray imager, and it will simultaneously detect and image photons in the 30 MeV-30 GeV and in the 15 45 keV energy ranges. The launch is planned at the beginning of 2006 with the Indian launcher PSLV, and it will be the only space mission entirely dedicated to gamma-ray astrophysics above 30 MeV during the period 2006 2007. Primary scientific goals include the study of AGNs, GRBs, pulsars, galactic sources, unidentified gamma-ray sources, diffuse galactic and extragalactic emission, high-precision timing studies, and fundamental physics. The AGILE Science Program will be focused on a prompt response to gamma-ray transients and alert for follow-up multiwavelength observations. Part of the AGILE Science Program will be open for Guest Investigations on a competitive basis.