Space observatory
Overview
A space observatory is a type of observatory that is located outside the Earth's atmosphere. This allows for the observation of astronomical objects without the interference of the Earth's atmosphere. Space observatories are used to observe celestial events and objects, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and other astronomical phenomena. They provide valuable data for the study of astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology.
History
The concept of a space observatory was first proposed in the early 20th century. However, it wasn't until the advent of space travel in the mid-20th century that these ideas could be put into practice. The first successful space observatory, the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory (OAO), was launched by NASA in 1966.
Types of Space Observatories
Space observatories can be categorized based on the type of electromagnetic radiation they are designed to observe. These categories include radio, infrared, optical, ultraviolet, X-ray, and gamma-ray observatories.
Radio Observatories
Radio observatories in space are designed to observe radio waves from space. These observatories can detect radio emissions from distant galaxies, nebulae, and other celestial bodies. The Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) is an example of a radio observatory.
Infrared Observatories
Infrared observatories observe the infrared radiation emitted by celestial bodies. These observatories can detect heat radiation from objects in space, including stars, galaxies, and nebulae. The Spitzer Space Telescope is an example of an infrared observatory.
Optical Observatories
Optical observatories observe visible light from celestial bodies. These observatories can provide detailed images of stars, galaxies, and other astronomical objects. The Hubble Space Telescope is an example of an optical observatory.
Ultraviolet Observatories
Ultraviolet observatories observe ultraviolet light from celestial bodies. These observatories can detect high-energy radiation from hot, young stars and active galactic nuclei. The Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX) is an example of an ultraviolet observatory.
X-ray Observatories
X-ray observatories observe X-rays from celestial bodies. These observatories can detect high-energy radiation from black holes, neutron stars, and supernovae. The Chandra X-ray Observatory is an example of an X-ray observatory.
Gamma-ray Observatories
Gamma-ray observatories observe gamma rays from celestial bodies. These observatories can detect the highest-energy radiation in the universe, emitted by the most violent and energetic processes. The Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope is an example of a gamma-ray observatory.
Function and Operation
Space observatories are typically operated by space agencies, such as NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos). These observatories are launched into space using rockets, and once in orbit, they are remotely controlled from Earth. The data collected by the observatories is transmitted back to Earth for analysis.
Future of Space Observatories
The future of space observatories looks promising, with several new missions planned for the coming decades. These include the James Webb Space Telescope, which is set to launch in 2021, and the Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST), which is planned for the mid-2020s.