ASCA X-Ray Observatory
Explanation:
Today marks the third anniversary of the launch of the Advanced Satellite
for Cosmology and Astrophysics (ASCA; renamed from Astro D when launched).
ASCA, seen here superposed on galaxy
M31, is a Japanese satellite for
which NASA has provided some scientific equipment.
ASCA
carries four large-area X-ray telescopes. At the focus of two of the
telescopes is a Gas Imaging Spectrometer
(
GIS),
while a Solid-state Imaging Spectrometer
(
SIS)
is at the focus of the other two. ASCA has provided recent evidence that
high
energy cosmic rays are formed in the expanding gas from a supernova.
During ASCA's three years of operation, it has also yielded valuable data
on
quasars,
supernova remnants,
dwarf novae,
pulsars,
clusters of galaxies, and the mysterious
X-ray background
radiation that appears to come from all directions.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
