Introduction
NASA's SPHEREx Space Telescope is set to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos. With a mission to create a 3D map of the universe, explore cosmic inflation, and search for water and organic molecules in the Milky Way, this telescope is a major step forward in space exploration and astrobiology. The SPHEREx mission will provide crucial data to help astronomers uncover the mysteries of galaxy formation, planetary evolution, and the origins of life.
What is SPHEREx?
Full Form:
SPHEREx stands for Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization, and Ices Explorer.
Mission Type:
A space telescope designed to survey the entire sky in optical and near-infrared light.
Mission Duration:
A two-year mission to map the universe and study its origins.
Launched By:
Agency: NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
Rocket: SpaceX Falcon 9
Objectives of SPHEREx Space Telescope
1. Studying Cosmic Inflation
The universe underwent a rapid expansion immediately after the Big Bang.
SPHEREx will analyze cosmic infrared light to detect signals from this early inflationary period.
2. Mapping Galaxies Across Time
Surveys over 450 million galaxies, covering 13.8 billion years of cosmic history.
Helps scientists understand how galaxies formed, evolved, and clustered.
3. Searching for Water and Organic Molecules
Identifies reservoirs of water and life-essential molecules in star-forming regions.
Helps determine whether conditions for life exist in other planetary systems.
4. Creating a 3D Map of the Universe
Develops a high-resolution map in 102 color bands, surpassing previous all-sky surveys.
Provides a comprehensive view of cosmic structures.
Key Features of SPHEREx
1. Advanced Infrared Technology
Uses near-infrared light to observe distant galaxies, stars, and planets.
Detects objects that are invisible to the human eye.
2. All-Sky Survey
Unlike previous missions, SPHEREx will scan the entire sky every six months.
Will produce a database of millions of celestial objects.
3. High-Resolution Spectroscopy
Provides data in 102 infrared bands, enabling detailed chemical composition analysis.
Surpasses previous infrared missions, such as WISE and 2MASS.
4. Target Identification for Future Missions
Identifies objects for further study by James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.
Helps refine the search for exoplanets, galaxies, and cosmic structures.
Why is SPHEREx Important?
1. Understanding Cosmic Inflation
Provides new insights into how the universe expanded exponentially.
Helps refine models of Big Bang cosmology.
2. Discovering the Building Blocks of Life
Searches for organic molecules and water ice in star-forming regions.
Provides critical data on how planets and life may have formed.
3. Aiding Future Space Missions
Data from SPHEREx will guide upcoming space exploration projects.
Supports the search for habitable exoplanets.
4. Global Scientific Collaboration
The mission involves international partners like the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute.
Strengthens cooperation in astrobiology and space exploration.
Potential Discoveries and Impact
Origins of the Universe: Confirms theories about the earliest moments of cosmic history.
Exoplanet Habitability: Finds potential life-supporting conditions in other star systems.
Dark Matter & Dark Energy: Contributes to understanding the large-scale structure of the universe.
Space Exploration Roadmap: Provides a foundation for future NASA and global space missions.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) for UPSC CSE
1. What is the primary objective of the SPHEREx Space Telescope?
a) To study black holes b) To create a 3D cosmic map and study cosmic inflation c) To detect gravitational waves d) To measure solar activity
Answer: b) To create a 3D cosmic map and study cosmic inflation
2. Which space agency is responsible for the SPHEREx mission?
a) ISRO b) ESA c) NASA d) Roscosmos
Answer: c) NASA
3. What type of light does SPHEREx primarily use for observations?
a) Ultraviolet b) X-rays c) Infrared d) Gamma rays
Answer: c) Infrared
4. How many galaxies is SPHEREx expected to survey?
a) 10 million b) 50 million c) 450 million d) 1 billion
Answer: c) 450 million
5. Which rocket is launching the SPHEREx telescope?
a) Ariane 5 b) Falcon 9 c) PSLV-C51 d) Soyuz-2
Answer: b) Falcon 9
Mains Question
"Discuss the significance of the SPHEREx Space Telescope in the study of cosmic inflation and the search for life-supporting molecules in space. How can its findings contribute to future space exploration?" (250 words)
Conclusion
The SPHEREx Space Telescope is set to revolutionize our understanding of the universe’s origins, cosmic inflation, and the building blocks of life. By mapping 450 million galaxies and identifying water and organic molecules, SPHEREx will contribute significantly to space exploration, astrobiology, and cosmology. As we stand on the brink of new discoveries, this mission will pave the way for the next generation of space research and interstellar exploration.
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