Spitzer Space Telescope – also known as Space Infrared Telescope or SIRTF is actually a space infrared observatory. It is recognized as the final (fourth) Great Observatory of NASA.
The planned duration of the nominal mission was 2 and half years, while its pre-launch expectation is that the mission might have an extension of at least 5 or up to the time when the supply of liquid helium was exhausted. This is projected to happen in April of 2009.
In observance of NASA traditions, the telescope was eventually renamed after a successful space operation on 18th December 2003. And unlike most other astronomical telescopes which are given the names of deceased astronomers and space scientists, Space Infrared Telescope’s new name was derived from a contest that was conducted primarily for the general public.
Spitzer Space Telescope’s name was obtained after that of Lyman Spitzer, the first doctor and scientist who suggested putting astronomy telescopes into outer space.
The planned duration of the nominal mission was 2 and half years, while its pre-launch expectation is that the mission might have an extension of at least 5 or up to the time when the supply of liquid helium was exhausted. This is projected to happen in April of 2009.
In observance of NASA traditions, the telescope was eventually renamed after a successful space operation on 18th December 2003. And unlike most other astronomical telescopes which are given the names of deceased astronomers and space scientists, Space Infrared Telescope’s new name was derived from a contest that was conducted primarily for the general public.
Spitzer Space Telescope’s name was obtained after that of Lyman Spitzer, the first doctor and scientist who suggested putting astronomy telescopes into outer space.
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