Colleagues, The W. M. Keck Institute for Space Studies (KISS) is soliciting concept ideas for study programs for the calendar year 2012. Study program concept ideas are solicited in any area of space science and engineering, including, but not limited to planetary science, astrobiology, earth remote sensing, astronomy and astrophysics from space, instrumentation for space science missions, and technology for robotic space missions. The goal of the Keck Institute is to develop breakthrough concepts and technical approaches that will significantly impact the course of future space missions. This solicitation for concept ideas will be followed in October 2011 by a formal solicitation for Study Program proposals, with final decisions on the 2012 calendar programs made by the KISS Steering Committee in February, 2012. Study programs generally fall into two categories: A. 8-10 month studies that consist of an opening workshop, a study period, and a closing workshop; or B. very focused 1-2 week intensive study programs. While suggestions are welcome at any time - there is no time like the present. If you have an idea that you think that KISS should pursue, please take the time to submit it now. These concept ideas can be submitted via email to Managing Director Michele Judd (mjudd@kiss.caltech.edu). The concepts need only include a title and a couple of paragraphs explaining your idea. The KISS Steering Committee will review these study concepts, select some promising areas and include those in the October proposal solicitation. More information about current, previous and future programs, the membership of the Steering Committee and other information about KISS may be found at our web site http://www.kiss.caltech.edu. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with me or Michele (626-395-6630, mjudd@kiss.caltech.edu) if you have questions or need further information. In order for us have a positive impact on future space missions, we need ideas and input from you (and the rest of the greater space science and engineering community). I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, Tom Prince Director, W. M. Keck Institute for Space Studies Professor of Physics, California Institute of Technology