NASA is set to launch its new 3D-sky-mapping satellite, called SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer), on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in late February 2025. The compact car-sized observatory will map the millions of stars and galaxies visible from Earth’s vantage point in every direction, creating a detailed 3D representation of the universe.
SPHEREx has three primary scientific objectives: to study an ancient cosmic event called inflation, which occurred just fractions of a second after the Big Bang; to gather data on the collective glow of distant galaxies, including hidden ones that have never been observed individually; and to search for ingredients needed for life in our galaxy, the Milky Way.
The mission aims to provide improved insight into the physics underlying inflation and what drove this phenomenon. By mapping the sky in 3D, SPHEREx will also give scientists a better understanding of the objects and sources radiating throughout the universe.
SPHEREx has a planned lifespan of two years and is expected to produce two maps per year. The satellite was developed and built by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) with SpaceX launching it from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-launch-of-nasas-new-3d-sky-mapping-satellite-set-for-february-2025