NASA WISE Telescope Starts Taking Pics

coondoggie writes "NASA said its Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer spacecraft successfully popped the cover off its infrared telescope and began 'celestial treasure hunt' mission of sending back what will be millions of images of space. The WISE lens cap served as a safety system keeping the ultra-sensitive lens and telescope system safe until the spacecraft positioned itself correctly in orbit. The cap also served as the top to a 'bottle' that chille the instrument and detectors. This cryostat is a Thermos-like tank of solid hydrogen."

Comments

Re:But can it detect

[Nialin]

If we live long enough, they'll rename it in 2620 to Urrectum.

Re:Will hopefully find lots of dark asteroids

[Thanshin]

It's not like the Earth could dodge a projectile Matrix-style.

That's why God gave us anti-ballistic missiles.

Re:Will hopefully find lots of dark asteroids

[troll8901]

No, no, it's UK politics. "God" refers to the secret service (equivalent) protecting the Queen. As widely known from the anthem, "God Saves the Queen" ...

(Looks up) Weird, the dark clouds have rolled in so suddenly - it was all clear skies just now.