What is NEOWISE (Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer)?
NEOWISE, which stands for Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer, is a space telescope that was launched by NASA in December 2009. Originally known as WISE (Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer), the spacecraft was repurposed in 2013 to focus specifically on detecting and characterizing near-Earth objects (NEOs). NEOs are asteroids and comets that come within 1.3 astronomical units (AU) of the Earth’s orbit, posing a potential threat of impact.
How does NEOWISE work?
NEOWISE operates by scanning the sky in the infrared spectrum, which allows it to detect objects that are too faint to be seen by optical telescopes. The telescope is equipped with a 40-centimeter (16-inch) primary mirror and four infrared detectors that are sensitive to wavelengths between 3.4 and 22 microns. By observing the heat emitted by asteroids and comets, NEOWISE is able to determine their size, composition, and surface properties.
The spacecraft orbits the Earth in a polar orbit, allowing it to scan the entire sky every six months. This wide-field survey approach enables NEOWISE to detect and track a large number of NEOs, providing valuable data for scientists studying the population of near-Earth objects.
What is the purpose of NEOWISE?
The primary purpose of NEOWISE is to identify and characterize near-Earth objects that could potentially pose a threat to our planet. By studying the size, composition, and orbits of these objects, scientists can assess the risk of impact and develop strategies for mitigating potential hazards. In addition to its planetary defense mission, NEOWISE also contributes to our understanding of the formation and evolution of the solar system.
What has NEOWISE discovered?
Since its repurposing in 2013, NEOWISE has made significant contributions to the field of NEO research. The telescope has detected and characterized thousands of near-Earth objects, ranging in size from a few meters to several kilometers across. By studying the distribution and properties of these objects, scientists have gained insights into the diversity and dynamics of the NEO population.
One of the most notable discoveries made by NEOWISE is the identification of potentially hazardous asteroids that could pose a threat of impact with Earth. By tracking the orbits of these objects, scientists can assess the risk of collision and develop strategies for planetary defense. In addition to NEOs, NEOWISE has also detected and studied comets, providing valuable data on these icy bodies that originate from the outer solar system.
How has NEOWISE contributed to our understanding of near-Earth objects?
NEOWISE has revolutionized our understanding of near-Earth objects by providing a comprehensive survey of the population of asteroids and comets that come close to our planet. By studying the size, composition, and orbits of these objects, scientists can assess the risk of impact and develop strategies for planetary defense. In addition, NEOWISE has helped to identify potential targets for future exploration missions, such as NASA’s OSIRIS-REx and Lucy missions.
The data collected by NEOWISE has also shed light on the origins and evolution of the solar system. By studying the properties of NEOs, scientists can infer the conditions that existed in the early solar system and trace the processes that led to the formation of planets and other celestial bodies. This information is crucial for understanding the history of our own planet and the potential threats that could impact its future.
What are the future plans for NEOWISE?
As of now, NASA has not announced any specific plans for the future of NEOWISE. However, the telescope continues to operate and provide valuable data on near-Earth objects. In the coming years, scientists hope to use NEOWISE to further refine our understanding of the NEO population and identify potential targets for future exploration missions.
One of the key goals for NEOWISE is to improve our ability to detect and track potentially hazardous asteroids that could pose a threat to Earth. By studying the properties of these objects, scientists can assess the risk of impact and develop strategies for planetary defense. In addition, NEOWISE will continue to contribute to our understanding of the origins and evolution of the solar system, providing valuable insights into the history of our own planet and the processes that shaped its formation.