was a space telescope that surveyed the entire sky in infrared light. It was launched in 2009 and operated until 2011. WISE discovered millions of new objects, including galaxies, stars, and asteroids. It also made detailed maps of the Milky Way galaxy.
Mission Objectives
The primary objectives of the WISE mission were to:
- Conduct an all-sky survey in four infrared wavelength bands
- Discover and characterize millions of galaxies, stars, and asteroids
- Map the structure of the Milky Way galaxy
- Study the formation and evolution of galaxies and stars
Telescope and Instrumentation
WISE was equipped with a 40-centimeter (16-inch) telescope and four infrared detectors. The detectors were sensitive to wavelengths of 3.4, 4.6, 12, and 22 micrometers. WISE scanned the entire sky in these four bands, creating a complete map of the universe in infrared light.
Discoveries
WISE made a number of significant discoveries, including:
- Millions of new galaxies: WISE discovered millions of new galaxies, including many that were previously hidden from view by dust.
- New stars and star-forming regions: WISE identified millions of new stars and star-forming regions. This data has helped astronomers to better understand the formation and evolution of stars.
- Asteroids and comets: WISE discovered millions of asteroids and comets. This data has helped astronomers to better understand the distribution and composition of these objects.
- Map of the Milky Way galaxy: WISE created a detailed map of the Milky Way galaxy. This map has helped astronomers to better understand the structure and evolution of our galaxy.
Legacy
WISE’s data has been used by astronomers to make a number of important discoveries. This data has also been used to create new maps of the universe and to study the formation and evolution of galaxies and stars. WISE’s legacy will continue to inspire astronomers for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is WISE?
WISE is the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer, a space telescope that surveyed the entire sky in infrared light.
When was WISE launched?
WISE was launched on December 14, 2009.
How long did WISE operate?
WISE operated until February 27, 2011.
What did WISE discover?
WISE discovered millions of new galaxies, stars, and asteroids. It also made detailed maps of the Milky Way galaxy.
How is WISE’s data used?
WISE’s data has been used by astronomers to make a number of important discoveries. This data has also been used to create new maps of the universe and to study the formation and evolution of galaxies and stars.
Additional Resources
Earth’s Atmosphere Composition
Earth’s atmosphere consists of a mixture of gases that surround the Earth and extend outwards from the surface. The primary components are nitrogen (78.08%) and oxygen (20.95%), along with small amounts of argon (0.93%), carbon dioxide (0.04%), and trace amounts of other gases. These gases form layers based on their density and temperature, with the troposphere being the lowest and densest layer closest to the surface. The atmosphere is essential for supporting life on Earth by providing oxygen for breathing, regulating temperature, and protecting from harmful radiation.
Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer Observations of Earth’s Atmosphere
The Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) satellite, launched in December 2009, provides unique observations of Earth’s atmosphere in the infrared spectrum. WISE’s measurements enable scientists to study various atmospheric phenomena, including:
- Infrared emissions from carbon dioxide and water vapor: WISE detects infrared radiation emitted by these gases, allowing researchers to track their global distribution and measure their concentrations.
- Tropospheric and stratospheric temperatures: By analyzing the intensity and wavelength of infrared emissions, WISE can determine the temperature of different atmospheric layers.
- Saharan dust transport: WISE’s observations provide insights into the transport and dispersion of Saharan dust particles across the Atlantic Ocean.
- Stratospheric aerosols: WISE data helps identify and characterize stratospheric aerosols, such as volcanic ash and sulfate particles, that can affect Earth’s climate.
- Cirrus clouds: Measurements from WISE contribute to the study of cirrus cloud properties, including their size, shape, and optical depth, which influence Earth’s radiation balance.
WISE’s observations complement those from other satellites and ground-based instruments, providing a comprehensive view of Earth’s atmospheric dynamics and composition.
Asteroid Composition Analyzed by
has provided valuable insights into the composition of asteroids in the solar system. By observing asteroids at different infrared wavelengths, WISE has classified them into various spectral types, representing different mineralogical compositions. The data from WISE has revealed the presence of carbonaceous, silicate, and metallic asteroids, each with unique characteristics. These findings have shed light on the formation and evolution of asteroids, as well as their potential for resources and planetary defense.
Atmospheric Absorption Lines Detected by NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer
discovered three lines in the atmosphere of an active galactic nucleus (AGN). WISE is a space telescope that detects infrared light from objects in space. The discovery of the three lines shows that AGNs are a major source of infrared light in the universe. The lines are thought to be caused by absorption of infrared light by molecules in the AGN’s atmosphere. This discovery could help scientists better understand the nature of AGNs and their role in the universe.
Infrared Spectroscopy of Earth’s Atmosphere Using NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer
Using , scientists have conducted an infrared spectroscopic survey of Earth’s atmosphere. The data collected provides valuable insights into the composition, temperature, and dynamics of atmospheric gases, such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, and ozone. This spectroscopy facilitates the study of atmospheric processes and climate patterns and contributes to a deeper understanding of Earth’s atmosphere.
NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer’s Contribution to Understanding Earth’s Atmosphere
played a significant role in advancing our understanding of Earth’s atmosphere. By capturing images in infrared wavelengths, WISE provided valuable data that allowed scientists to:
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Monitor aerosol distribution: WISE detected and tracked aerosols, tiny particles suspended in the atmosphere, which influence climate and air quality.
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Study cloud properties: The infrared images revealed cloud cover, heights, and temperatures, providing insights into cloud formation, evolution, and their impact on weather patterns.
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Map atmospheric water vapor: WISE’s infrared sensitivity enabled it to measure water vapor levels in the atmosphere, contributing to understanding global climate patterns and precipitation processes.
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Characterize atmospheric composition: By detecting specific gases, such as carbon monoxide and ozone, WISE provided data on atmospheric composition and its variation over time.
WISE’s observations have helped scientists better understand the dynamics, composition, and behavior of Earth’s atmosphere, enhancing our ability to predict weather, study climate change, and improve air quality monitoring.
Asteroid Surface Mineralogy from NASA’s WISE
mission has provided valuable insights into the surface mineralogy of asteroids. WISE’s infrared data reveals absorption and emission features that indicate the presence of specific minerals.
Studies using WISE data have identified several distinct mineralogical classes among asteroids, including:
- S-type asteroids: Rich in silicate minerals such as olivine, pyroxene, and plagioclase
- C-type asteroids: Contain abundant carbon and water-bearing minerals, including phyllosilicates and organic compounds
- M-type asteroids: Composed primarily of metal-rich minerals, likely iron and magnesium oxides
WISE observations have also detected the presence of minerals that suggest aqueous alteration or thermal processing on asteroid surfaces. For example, some S-type asteroids display spectral features characteristic of hydrated minerals, while certain M-type asteroids exhibit evidence of high-temperature events.
The mineralogical characterization of asteroids provided by WISE data has implications for understanding the origin and evolution of these celestial bodies. It helps constrain models of asteroid formation and shed light on the role of asteroids in delivering water and organic materials to the early Earth.
Earth’s Atmosphere as Observed by NASA’s Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer
has provided valuable insights into Earth’s atmospheric composition and dynamics. By observing the Earth in the infrared spectrum, WISE has mapped the distribution of water vapor, carbon dioxide, and methane within our planet’s atmosphere.
The data from WISE has revealed that the concentration of water vapor in the Earth’s stratosphere varies dramatically depending on the season and latitude. Water vapor is transported into the stratosphere by tropical thunderstorms, and the amount of water vapor present affects the formation of clouds and ice particles. In addition, WISE has detected a sharp increase in carbon dioxide concentrations in the upper stratosphere, suggesting that human activities are influencing the composition of the Earth’s atmosphere.
Remote Sensing of Earth’s Atmosphere using
is a space telescope designed to survey the entire sky in mid-infrared wavelengths. WISE has been used to remote sense Earth’s atmosphere, providing valuable insights into its composition, temperature, and dynamics.
WISE’s observations have enabled scientists to measure the distribution of water vapor, carbon monoxide, and other gases in the atmosphere. These measurements have helped to improve understanding of atmospheric circulation patterns and weather systems. Additionally, WISE’s data has been used to study the effects of pollution and climate change on the atmosphere.
By providing a comprehensive view of Earth’s atmosphere, WISE has become an essential tool for scientists studying the planet’s climate and environmental systems.
