NASA’s Pandora mission is set to launch this fall, marking a significant step towards uncovering the secrets of distant alien worlds. The spacecraft will use infrared technology to analyze exoplanet atmospheres for clues about habitability.
The mission aims to study at least 20 exoplanets, focusing on detecting clouds, hazes, and water in their atmospheres. This information is crucial for assessing whether a planet could support life. By observing these planets over long periods, Pandora will help astronomers distinguish between planetary signals and the interference from nearby stars.
Pandora’s unique design features a spare near-infrared detector originally developed for the James Webb Space Telescope. The satellite will continuously observe exoplanets for 24-hour periods, providing valuable insights that future telescopes can’t match.
The biggest challenge facing Pandora is distinguishing water in exoplanet atmospheres from light from the host star. By separating these signals, Pandora will help confirm the presence of water on distant planets.
The mission is led by NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and is expected to last a year, with each target planet observed 10 times. The successful completion of the spacecraft bus marks a major milestone for the project, keeping it on track for launch in the fall.
Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/world/shows/story/the-buzz-nasas-pandora-mission-space-agency-moves-closer-to-uncovering-secrets-of-distant-alien-worlds-glbs-2677922-2025-02-11