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Explanation: Nine years ago the massive Compton Gamma Ray Observatory was deployed in low earth orbit. Sparkling interior reflections and the bright limb of the Earth are visible in this 1991 window view of Compton's release by the crew of the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Lofted above the protective atmosphere, Compton's instruments could explore the extreme high-energy Universe in gamma rays, photons with 100,000 times or more the energy of visible light. The premier gamma-ray observatory far exceeded expectations for a two- to five-year mission, but a recent gyroscope failure has prompted NASA to decide to steer the satellite safely back into the atmosphere. Compton's lasting legacy of discovery will include the detection of more than 400 celestial gamma-ray sources, 10 times more than were previously known; and more than 2,500 gamma-ray bursts.
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NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings, and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris. Specific rights apply.
A service of: LHEA at NASA / GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
Based on Astronomy Picture
Of the Day
Publications with keywords: Observatory - orbit - CGRO - gamma ray
Publications with words: Observatory - orbit - CGRO - gamma ray
See also:
- Xuyi Station and the Fireball
- Supernova Remnant CTA 1
- APOD: 2024 August 21 Á Fermis 12 year All Sky Gamma ray Map
- Startrails over Beijing Ancient Observatory
- APOD: 2023 September 6 Á HESS Telescopes Explore the High Energy Sky
- APOD: 2023 July 18 Á Milky Way above La Palma Observatory
- A Road to the Stars