spacetelescope

Spacetelescope is a term used to describe an astronomical telescope that operates outside Earth's atmosphere. By escaping atmospheric distortion and absorption, a spacetelescope can observe a wider range of wavelengths, including ultraviolet, infrared, and X-ray bands, and achieve higher angular resolution than ground-based systems.

A typical spacetelescope consists of a light-collecting aperture, a stabilization and pointing system, scientific instruments (cameras, spectrometers, and sensors), power and thermal control systems, and a communications link to Earth. It is launched by a rocket and placed in a stable orbit or at a distant point in space to minimize thermal fluctuations and Earth shadowing. Many systems operate with autonomous control and rely on ground-based data processing.

Mission design varies in life span and servicing needs. Some are intended for single-use, while others are designed to be serviced by astronauts or robotic missions to upgrade instruments and extend their lifetimes.

Notable examples include the Hubble Space Telescope (optical and ultraviolet, launched 1990), the James Webb Space Telescope (infrared, launched 2021, at the second Lagrange point, L2), the Spitzer Space Telescope (infrared, 2003–2020), and the Chandra X-ray Observatory (X-ray, launched 1999). These projects have produced high-resolution images, deep field surveys, exoplanet studies, and significant advances in cosmology and astrophysics.

Spacetelescope technology continues to influence future missions, with ongoing developments in larger apertures, improved detectors, and advanced cooling systems to expand wavelength coverage and sensitivity.