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Daniel Oberhaus
The Pandora satellite weighs 325 kilograms and has a 45-centimeter objective lens. It is designed to observe at least 20 exoplanets and their host stars in the visible and near-infrared light spectrum. This will help scientists identify the elements present in the atmospheres of these planets.
According to NASA, Pandora will focus on planets that have atmospheres made of hydrogen or water, as these are seen as the most promising candidates in the search for signs of life. The spacecraft was placed into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of about 600 kilometers.
In addition, NASA's SPARCS cubesat was also launched into orbit. It is designed to study small stars, like red dwarfs, using ultraviolet light. The cubesat will monitor outbursts from these stars, which could impact the habitability of nearby planets.
source: reuters.com
According to NASA, Pandora will focus on planets that have atmospheres made of hydrogen or water, as these are seen as the most promising candidates in the search for signs of life. The spacecraft was placed into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of about 600 kilometers.
In addition, NASA's SPARCS cubesat was also launched into orbit. It is designed to study small stars, like red dwarfs, using ultraviolet light. The cubesat will monitor outbursts from these stars, which could impact the habitability of nearby planets.
source: reuters.com
