The NASA-led BurstCube satellite has achieved a significant milestone by detecting its first gamma-ray burst, the most powerful type of explosion in the universe. The event, known as GRB 240629A, occurred on June 29 in the southern constellation Microscopium.
BurstCube is designed to detect and study short gamma-ray bursts, which are brief flashes of high-energy light created when superdense objects like neutron stars collide. These collisions also produce heavy elements like gold and iodine, essential for life as we know it.
The mission has been successful despite a minor setback. One of the two solar panels failed to fully extend after BurstCube deployed from the space station. This issue will cause the satellite to re-enter the atmosphere in September, reducing its operational time to just a few months.
Despite this challenge, the team is proud of their response and is making the most of the time they have in orbit. The mission provides an opportunity to do great science, test new technologies, and offer learning opportunities for up-and-coming members of the astrophysics community.
Source: https://science.nasa.gov/burstcube/nasas-mini-burstcube-mission-detects-mega-blast/