HYDRA: A New Paradigm for Astrophysical Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis

Regardless of the source or mission, the analysis of astrophysical data invariably relies on the interplay between predictive physical models, a detailed understanding of the observing instruments, and the discriminating comparison of predictions and actual observations. With HYDRA, we are developing a new platform which will provide scientists a more flexible and extensible way of constructing models for astrophysical sources that include geometric information, physical emission and absorption mechanisms, transport processes, and projection effects. We will also provide an interface through which users may link existing astrophysical models to HYDRA. Similarly, modules describing the performance of the instrumentation, be it ground-based telescope or orbiting satellite, will be definable in a mission-independent way to allow realizations of these models in the form of simulated observations. By combining source and instrumentation models, HYDRA can serve as a tool for observational planning, instrument design, and calibration. Simultaneously, HYDRA will provide an analysis environment that allows source models to be compared to existing observations and iteratively adjusted. As part of its design, the HYDRA system will also include advanced visualization capabilities that will provide users with additional diagnostic ability as well as a potentially powerful educational tool.