Suggested Searches

1 Min Read

Three of NASA’s Infrared Telescopes

Scientists have been studying the universe with infrared space telescopes for 40 years, including these NASA missions, from left: the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS); the Spitzer Space Telescope; and the James Webb Space Telescope.
PIA25790
Credits: NASA/JPL-Caltech
Image Addition Date:

Description

This artist's concept shows three space telescopes that observe infrared light, wavelengths slightly longer than what human eyes can see. On the right is NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. Launched in 2021, it is the largest and most powerful space observatory in history. On the left is NASA's Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS), the first infrared telescope in Earth orbit, launched in 1983. In the middle is NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope, launched in 2003. The background image is from Spitzer and shows the Eagle Nebula.