BAE Systems Successfully Completes Delivery of NASA's SPHEREx Observatory for Upcoming Launch

In a significant advancement for space exploration, BAE Systems has announced the successful delivery of NASA’s Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer, commonly referred to as SPHEREx. This delivery took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, setting the stage for an exciting upcoming launch scheduled for late February alongside NASA's Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere (PUNCH) mission, which will utilize a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

Objectives of the SPHEREx Observatory

SPHEREx is set to undertake a groundbreaking two-year mission that will include the first all-sky spectral surveys. Equipped with an advanced imager created by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) along with the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), this observatory will methodically survey the sky in near-infrared light. Over several planned observations, SPHEREx intends to compile three-dimensional, colorized maps detailing upwards of 450 million galaxies, as well as millions of stars situated within our own Milky Way galaxy.

This ambitious project aims to provide researchers with crucial insights into the early formation of the universe, particularly focusing on the moments immediately following the Big Bang. SPHEREx will assist in exploring various key areas such as the evolutionary trajectory of galaxies throughout time and the search for water and other essential molecules in regions where new planets are in the process of formation.

Collaborative Efforts behind SPHEREx

Brian Pramann, the SPHEREx program manager for BAE Systems Space Mission Systems, expressed pride in the collaborative effort that brought this project to fruition. The successful development of SPHEREx is a testament to the collective endeavors of BAE Systems, JPL, Caltech, and numerous other partners who have played a pivotal role in making this mission possible. After years dedicated to intricate design, manufacturing, integration, and testing, the BAE Systems team is eager to witness the launch of SPHEREx.

In addition to achieving its core scientific goals, SPHEREx will also identify significant targets for subsequent observation by space telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope. BAE Systems has taken an active role in the construction of both the spacecraft bus and the telescope, demonstrating its leadership in integrating and testing spacecraft for religiously rigorous environmental conditions. Furthermore, the company is poised to offer support during the launch phase and throughout the commissioning of the spacecraft.

Historical Significance of BAE Systems in Space Exploration

BAE Systems has a rich history of supporting NASA's astrophysical ventures, contributing to iconic missions including the Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-ray Observatory, and the James Webb Space Telescope. The company stands proud of its contributions to expanding our understanding of space and the universe as a whole.

For additional insights and updates, interested parties may contact Sawyer D'Argonne at BAE Systems by phone at 303-250-6031 or via email at sawyer.d'[email protected]. Further information can also be found on BAE Systems’ official website: www.baesystems.com/US@BAESystemsInc.

As humanity embarks on this new chapter of exploration, the SPHEREx observatory represents a remarkable leap towards unraveling the mysteries of our universe. The collective efforts of BAE Systems, NASA, and their partners underscore the tremendous potential of collaborative innovation in scientific research and discovery.