The SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization, and Ices Explorer) space observatory is set to launch on February 27, 2025. The mission aims to map the entire celestial sky in 102 infrared colors, unraveling secrets about the universe’s origins, cosmic inflation, and the building blocks of life.
SPHEREx will explore cosmic inflation, a phenomenon that occurred after the Big Bang, and identify essential life-sustaining molecules like water and carbon dioxide. The observatory will also assist other telescopes, such as the James Webb Space Telescope, by highlighting regions of interest for further exploration.
Its innovative design and passive cooling system enable operation at extreme low temperatures, ensuring efficiency. The mission is expected to prompt an increase in funding and interest in space exploration technologies and missions.
SPHEREx will gather crucial data that sheds light on cosmic inflation, a rapid expansion of space after the Big Bang. Understanding this phenomenon could provide profound insights into the conditions that led to the formation of the universe as we know it.
The estimated project cost for the SPHEREx mission is approximately $240 million, reflecting a significant investment in the future of space exploration. The observatory’s design focuses on sustainable practices, such as utilizing less energy through its passive cooling system, showcasing an eco-conscious approach to space exploration.
Source: https://www.scimag.news/news-en/97914/unlocking-cosmic-secrets-meet-spherex-the-game-changing-space-observatory