1. What is dark matter?
2. What is the nature of Dark Energy?
3. How did the universe begin?
4. Did Einstein have the last word on gravity?
5. What are the masses of the Neutrinos, and how have they shaped the evolution of the Universe?
6. How do cosmic accelerators work and what are they accelerating?
7. Are protons unstable?
8. What are the new states of matter at exceedingly high density and temperature?
9. Are there additional space-time dimensions?
10. How were the elements from Iron to Uranium made?
11. Is a new theory of matter and light needed at the highest energies?

Based upon its assessment, the group prioritized the new research programs and facilities needed to advance understanding in each of these areas. Consistent with the goal of the President's Management Agenda to manage Federal research and development investments as a portfolio of interconnected activities, this report lays out a plan for exciting discovery at the intersection of physics and astronomy.

The report can be found at http://www.ostp.gov/html/physicsoftheuniverse.pdf

The working group members include representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE), The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the National Science Foundation (NSF), The Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

About the National Science and Technology Council

The National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) was established by Executive Order on November 23, 1993. This Cabinet-level Council is the principal means for the President to coordinate science, space, and technology to coordinate the diverse parts of the Federal research and development enterprise. The President chairs the NSTC. Membership consists of the Vice President, Assistant to the President for Science and technology, Cabinet Secretaries and Agency Heads with significant science and technology responsibilities, and other White House officials.

An important objective of the NSTC is the establishment of clear national goals for Federal science and technology investments in areas ranging from information technologies and health research, to improving transportation systems and strengthening fundamental research. The Council prepares research and development strategies that are coordinated across Federal agencies to form an investment package aimed at accomplishing multiple national goals. For more information visit www.ostp.gov/nstc/html/nstc.html

About the Office of Science and Technology Policy

Congress established OSTP in 1976 with a broad mandate to advise the President and others within the Executive Office of the President on the impacts of science and technology on domestic and international affairs. The 1976 Act also authorizes OSTP to lead an interagency effort to develop and to implement sound science and technology policies and budgets and to work with the private sector, state and local governments, the science and higher education communities, and other nations toward this end. The Director of OSTP serves as co-chair of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and oversees the National Science and Technology Council on behalf of the President. For more information visit www.ostp.gov.