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Integral
17 October 2002, the Integral satellite departed Earth on its mission to analyse gamma rays, electromagnetic waves 100,000 times more energetic than visible light that are emitted notably by black holes and supernovae (a ‘supernova’ is an exploding star that generates an extraordinarily bright and sudden emission of light). Using the data Integral has collected, astrophysicists hope not only to gain new insights into the cosmic phenomena that generate gamma rays, but also to map emission sources of this radiation in the Universe. For this purpose, Integral has four instruments, one of which is the SPI spectrometer developed by CNES as prime contractor.
The Integral mission led by ESA is an international effort associating several European nations (Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom), the United States and Russia. Initially scheduled to last 10 years, the mission was extended to 2022.
Mission's news feed
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Rescuing Integral: No thrust? No problem
A year ago tomorrow, a failure on the Integral spacecraft meant it fired its thrusters for likely the last time. In the days since, the spacecraft in Earth orbit has continued to...
July 16, 2021
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Dead star emits never-before seen mix of radiation
Something that has never been seen before in this type of star, and may solve a long-standing cosmic mystery.
July 28, 2020
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Integral satellite makes new discovery to mark 15 years in orbit
October 18, 2017