Interesting Facts About the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory (CGRO)

Discover key insights about the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, its launch, instruments, and contributions to gamma-ray astronomy.

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The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory (CGRO) was launched in 1991 and was the second of NASA’s Great Observatories, following the Hubble Space Telescope. It significantly enhanced our understanding of gamma-ray sources, including black holes, neutron stars, and active galaxies. The CGRO was equipped with four instruments that collectively covered an unprecedented range of gamma-ray energies. It was de-orbited in 2000, but its data continues to be invaluable to astronomers.

FAQs & Answers

  1. When was the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory launched? The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory was launched in 1991.
  2. What were the main instruments of the CGRO? The CGRO was equipped with four instruments that covered a wide range of gamma-ray energies.
  3. What is the significance of the CGRO in astronomy? The CGRO greatly enhanced our understanding of gamma-ray sources, such as black holes and neutron stars.
  4. Why was the CGRO de-orbited? The CGRO was de-orbited in 2000 after years of successful operations, but its data is still invaluable for astronomers.

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