Infrared Astronomy Collection

Crescent moon, showing earthshine. Close to the new moon, earthshine reflected by the moon back to earth makes it possible to see the whole lunar disc - " the old moon in the new moons

Artwork of IRAS in orbit
Artists impression of IRAS in orbit. The Infrared Astronomy Satellite (IRAS) was launched on 25 January 1983. Its primary instrument was a 60cm telescope

Astronomy and the infrared spectrum
Astronomy and the infrared (IR) spectrum. The IR part of the electromagnetic spectrum runs from far red (lower left) through near IR, mid-IR, far IR & submillimetre wavelengths (1-1000 micrometres)

Pistol star

Star forming region

Jupiter, first SOFIA image
Focussing Jupiter. A SOFIA infrared image with FORCAST instrument (19.7, 31.5 and 37.1 micrometer wavelength). SOFIA - the flying 2, 7m mirrors observatory onboard an Boeing 7747 SP

SOFIA airborne observatory installed in its 747SP aircraft. The mounting structure (blue) is at upper left. SOFIA is the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy

SOFIA airborne observatory aircraft. SOFIA is the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy. It is a 2.5-metre infrared telescope that is flown in its 747SP aircraft to the stratosphere

SOFIA airborne observatory in flight
SOFIA - the flying 2, 7m mirror observatory onboard an Boeing 7747 SP. The first light pictures were taken on May 26, 2010 of planet Jupiter and M82 galaxy

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Infrared Astronomy: Unveiling the Hidden Universe Step into the realm and discover a universe that is invisible to our naked eyes. Through advanced technology and innovative research, scientists have unlocked the secrets hidden within celestial objects, unveiling breathtaking wonders that were once concealed from us. Dwarf planet Ceres, with its enigmatic surface, has captivated astronomers. Using sophisticated instruments like SCI2017_0003, they have peered through its layers to reveal a column of material at and just below its surface. This revelation provides valuable insights into the formation and composition of this intriguing celestial body. The Butterfly Nebula (M2-9), as captured by SOFIA's mid-infrared image in SCI2012_0003, showcases an ethereal beauty reminiscent of delicate wings fluttering in space. This planetary nebula offers a glimpse into the final stages of stellar evolution, where dying stars shed their outer layers to create stunning cosmic artwork. Even our own moon holds surprises when viewed through infrared lenses. The crescent moon bathed in earthshine reveals intricate details that are often overlooked by traditional observations. This phenomenon reminds us of the interconnectedness between Earth and its natural satellite. Artwork depicting IRAS orbiting around our planet highlights one of humanity's greatest achievements in space exploration. The Infrared Astronomical Satellite revolutionized our understanding of distant galaxies and helped pave the way for future discoveries. Exploring different wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum is crucial for unraveling astronomical mysteries. Infrared light allows us to peer through dust clouds and observe star-forming regions teeming with new life amidst interstellar nurseries. One remarkable example is the Pistol Star - a massive blue hypergiant located within our Milky Way galaxy. By studying it using infrared telescopes, scientists gain invaluable knowledge about extreme stellar evolution processes occurring throughout the cosmos. Jupiter has always fascinated stargazers; however, capturing its true essence requires the power of infrared technology.