SPHEREx Observatory Assembled

News Release • April 22nd, 2024
24 08367 spherex horizontal integrated edit

This picture shows the SPHEREx observatory in a horizontal position, allowing us to see all three layers of photon shields as well as the telescope. This configuration was used to perform a cover deployment test, as well as a thorough inspection and cleaning of the photon shield edges. In this picture, the telescope soft cover is installed to protect the optics from dust and other foreign objects. The observatory will be transported in this orientation to the anechoic chamber used for EMI/EMC testing in late April, before being moved to a vertical position for the test. These pictures were taken at BAE Systems, in Boulder CO in mid-April 2024. (Image Captured by: BAE Systems, Courtesy NASA/JPL-Caltech.)


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