NASA is set to launch its newest space telescope, the Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer (SPHEREx), on February 28. The telescope will be launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The SPHEREx mission aims to improve our understanding of how the universe evolved and search for key ingredients for life in our galaxy. The four small spacecraft that comprise the PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) mission will observe the Sun’s corona as it transitions into solar wind.
NASA will provide live coverage of the launch, prelaunch news conferences, and post-launch events on its website and social media platforms. The public can also register to attend the launch virtually through NASA’s virtual guest program.
A series of prelaunch news conferences will be held on February 25-27, featuring scientists and engineers involved in the SPHEREx and PUNCH missions. Media accreditation for in-person coverage has passed, but audio-only coverage will be available through the NASA “V” circuits.
The launch window opens at 10:09 p.m. EST (7:09 p.m. PST) on February 28. Live streaming and blog updates will be available on the agency’s website during the countdown milestones. On-demand streaming video and photos of the launch will be made available shortly after liftoff.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-sets-launch-coverage-for-missions-studying-cosmic-origins-sun