Space exploration has always fascinated humanity, and space telescopes have played a key role in unlocking the deepest secrets of the universe.
1. Hubble Space Telescope (HST)
Launched in 1990, the HST has provided unparalleled views of the universe, capturing detailed images of galaxies, nebulae, and exoplanets. Its design includes a 2.4-meter primary mirror and instruments sensitive to ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared light. Working above Earth’s atmosphere, it avoids atmospheric distortions, offering crystal-clear images. Notable discoveries include determining the expansion rate of the universe and providing evidence of dark energy. The mission cost an estimated $1.5 billion.
2. James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)
Scheduled for launch in 2021, the JWST is designed to study the first galaxies and stars in the universe. It has a 6.5-meter segmented main mirror and observes mainly in the infrared spectrum, allowing it to see through clouds of cosmic dust. Located at the second Lagrange point (L2), it will provide unprecedented insight into the early Universe. The development cost is estimated at $ 10 billion.
3. Chandra X-ray Observatory
Since its launch in 1999, Chandra has observed X-ray emission from high-energy regions of the Universe, such as the remnants of exploded stars. Its high-resolution mirrors focus X-rays onto detectors, allowing it to study phenomena such as black holes and supernovae. Chandra's discoveries have deepened our understanding of the turbulent processes in the Universe. The observatory cost was about $ 1.65 billion.
4. Spitzer Space Telescope
Operating from 2003 to 2020, Spitzer observed the universe in infrared light, revealing regions hidden from optical telescopes. It used a 0.85-meter primary mirror and helped study the atmospheres of exoplanets and the structure of the Milky Way. Spitzer’s discoveries included the discovery of exoplanets and the study of star formation. The mission cost an estimated $800 million.
5. Kepler Space Telescope
Launched in 2009, Kepler’s mission was to find Earth-like planets orbiting other stars. It used a photometer to monitor the brightness of more than 150,000 stars, detecting exoplanets by observing the dimming caused by a planet’s transit across its host star. Kepler confirmed the existence of thousands of exoplanets, changing our understanding of planetary systems. The mission cost about $600 million.
6. Gaia Space Observatory
Launched by the European Space Agency in 2013, Gaia aims to create a precise 3D map of the Milky Way. Equipped with a one billion pixel camera, it measures the positions, distances and motions of stars with unprecedented precision. Gaia’s data improves our understanding of the structure and evolution of the galaxy. The mission is estimated to cost 740 million euros.
7. Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope
Since 2008, Fermi has been observing gamma rays, the most energetic form of light in the universe. It consists of two main instruments: the Large Array Telescope (LAT) and the Gamma-ray Burst Monitor (GBM). Fermi has provided insights into phenomena such as gamma-ray bursts and active galactic nuclei. The mission cost was about $690 million.
These space telescopes have expanded our understanding of the universe, each providing unique insights through specialized designs and instruments. As technology advances, future telescopes will continue to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos, inspiring scientists and the public alike.
Note: The information provided is based on data available through 2025. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official resources of the space agency.
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