The mission of the Wide-Field Infrared Explorer (WIRE) is to
discover how galaxies change through time -- galaxy evolution -- and to detect the birth
of new galaxies, called proto-galaxies. Understanding how, and how fast, galaxies evolve
and form are some of the most important issues in modern astronomy today. Within weeks of
the launch of the WIRE spacecraft into low Earth orbit, this small telescope will detect
tens of thousands of starburst galaxies -- galaxies where stars are forming at a much
higher rate than usual -- as well as an unknown number of proto-galaxies. The IPAC
engineering staff and computer facilities will support principal investigator Dr. Perry
Hacking and WIRE co-investigators in analyzing and distributing these important new data
describing how our Universe has changed over time.
WIRE is a small, focussed and fast-paced mission. Recent
advances in detector technology will enable WIRE to make a major contribution to
astrophysics despite its small size and modest pricetag. The telescope has a 12"
mirror and no moving parts -- the entire instrument could easily fit in the backseat of a
small car.
WIRE is part of NASA's Small Explorer Program.
Launch is scheduled for March 1999.
Spacecraft Updates from
GSFC -- The WIRE spacecraft is on
the Pegasus rocket!
NASA Origins Program, WIRE: The Wide Field Infrared Explorer
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