The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory
Explanation:
The
Compton Gamma Ray Observatory (CGRO) was the
most massive instrument ever launched by a
NASA Space Shuttle in 1991
and continues to revolutionize
gamma-ray astronomy.
Before Compton loses more stabilizing gyroscopes,
NASA is considering firing onboard rockets to
bring it on a controlled reentry into the ocean.
This orbiting observatory sees the sky in
gamma-ray photons - light so blue humans can't see it.
These photons are blocked by the Earth's atmosphere
from reaching the Earth's surface.
Results from CGRO,
pictured above, have shown the
entire universe to be a violent and rapidly changing place -
when viewed in gamma-rays.
Astronomers using
CGRO data continue to make
monumental discoveries, including identifying
mysterious
gamma-ray bursts that uniquely illuminate
the early universe, discovery of a
whole new class of QSOs,
and discovery of
objects so strange that astronomers
can't yet figure out what they are.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
