Astronomy in Space

Space Astronomy

We have seen that there are only a few visible and infrared–transmitting "windows" in the atmosphere. To observe at wavelengths outside these windows, we must launch astronomical satellites above the atmosphere.

Over the last several years, NASA (in collaboration with space agencies of other nations) has launched 4 "Great Observatories":

• The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) – Optical and Ultraviolet Astronomy

Astronauts deploy HST from the Space Shuttle cargo
bay using the shuttle's remote manipulator arm.

HST observing from low Earth Orbit.

• The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory – Gamma Ray Astronomy

Artists rendition of GRO. Cutaways show the gamma ray instruments.

• In 2000, GRO finished its mission. While maneuvering fuel was still available, NASA controllers decided to "deorbit" the satellite safely into the Pacific Ocean.

• The Chandra Observatory – X-Ray.Astronomy

Chandra being deployed from the Shuttle bay.

Chandra observing with solar panels deployed and aperture door open.

• The Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) – Infrared Astronomy

SIRTF is the fourth of NASA's Great Observatories.