Short for Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer, SPHEREx aims to capture millions of stars and galaxies in 102 colors, creating a unique 3D map to uncover clues about the universe’s origins. This video features Farah Alibay, a SPHEREx systems engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Brian Pramann, SPHEREx program manager at BAE Systems. Learn about the special facilities required for SPHEREx’s critical environmental tests, including thermal, acoustic, vibration, and electromagnetic interference and compatibility testing. NASA is targeting Feb. 27, 2025, for the launch of SPHEREx, which will lift off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Shaped like a megaphone, the upcoming mission will map the entire sky in infrared light to answer big questions about the universe.
Read MoreNASA previews SPHEREx, space telescope mission to explore universe’s origins.
Read MoreThe SPHEREx Observatory has completed standalone operations in the West High Bay at Astrotech Space Operations Payload Processing Facility at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The observatory is ready to begin integrated operations with rideshare partner mission PUNCH and the SpaceX Falcon 9 vehicle, readying for launch in a few weeks. Photo taken at Astrotech Space Operations Facility, VSFB by BAE...
Read MoreDuring payload testing, the SPHEREx team prepared for launch and post-launch operations. In October 2024, we conducted the first Operational Readiness Test (ORT), simulating nominal launch and post-launch events. Such tests validate the adequacy of our procedures and training for mission success.
Read MoreNASA and SpaceX are targeting late February 2025 for the launch of the agency’s next astrophysics observatory, SPHEREx. Short for Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer, SPHEREx will launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Read More