Learn languages naturally with fresh, real content!

Popular Topics
Explore By Region
Australia's SpIRIT nanosatellite completes initial mission, now studying cosmic gamma-ray bursts.
Australia’s SpIRIT nanosatellite, developed by the University of Melbourne with support from the Italian and Australian space agencies, has successfully completed its initial mission phase after over 600 days in orbit and more than 9,000 Earth revolutions.
Launched in December 2023 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the 1-meter satellite deployed its thermal management system and captured images of itself in space, including a “selfie” showing its solar panels and mission logos.
It now enters its science phase, using a gamma-ray detector to detect sudden cosmic bursts from dying or colliding stars, providing early warnings to astronomers.
The mission, expected to last over 1,000 days, marks a major advancement in Australia’s space capabilities and highlights strong international collaboration in space science.
El nanosatélite australiano SpIRIT completa su misión inicial, estudiando ahora los estallidos cósmicos de rayos gamma.