Space observatory refers to all instruments used to observe planets, galaxies and other outer space objects in outer space.
Introduction
A large number of telescopes have been launched into orbit, most of which have greatly increased our understanding of the universe. Astronomical research on the surface of the earth is restricted due to the interference and filtering of electromagnetic radiation from the earth’s atmosphere. Therefore, it is necessary to place astronomical observation instruments in space. Telescopes that revolve around the earth outside the earth’s atmosphere will not be subject to the blinking effect (due to the flow of air in the atmosphere) nor will it be subject to light pollution from artificial light sources on the earth’s surface.
However, outer space astronomy is more important for research outside the frequency range of light and radio waves, because only light and radio frequency electromagnetic signals are not blocked by the atmosphere. For example, X-ray astronomy is impossible on the surface of the earth, and now this subject occupies an important position in astronomy due to the launch of X-ray telescope satellites. The same infrared and ultraviolet are also blocked a lot.
Space observatories can be divided into two categories: observing the entire universe and observing a certain part of the universe
Many space observatories have almost completed their missions, while others are still in operation.
Space observatory or telescope in service:
Hubble Space Telescope (HST, Hubble Space Telescope)
Spitzer Space Telescope (SST, Spitzer Space Telescope)
Chandra X-ray Observatory (CXO, Chandra X-ray Observatory)
XMM-Newton Satellite (X-ray Multi-Mirror Newton)
The planned space observatory or telescope:
Planck Satellite
Herschel Space Observatory (HST, Herschel Space Observatory)
James Webb Space Telescope (JWST, James Webb Space Telescope)
Tags: space telescope
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