Einstein Probe
Context:
China launched the lotus-shaped satellite Einstein Probe (EP) to explore the mysteries of the Earth.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Space technology)
Einstein Probe (EP) :
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) spearheads the Einstein Probe (EP) mission, focusing on time-domain high-energy astrophysics.
- EP’s primary scientific objective is to investigate the transient and variable X-ray sky, capturing intense bursts of high-energy light emitted by celestial objects like merging neutron stars and black holes.
- Successfully launched on January 9, 2024, from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Centre using the “Long March-2C” rocket, EP boasts cutting-edge X-ray mirrors and detectors.
- Distinguishing itself from conventional X-ray telescopes, EP’s innovative design enables it to monitor nearly a tenth of the sky simultaneously. This capability allows for the discovery of emerging X-ray sources and facilitates in-depth examinations of both known and novel celestial phenomena across extended timeframes.
- EP’s capabilities extend to the detection of light emanating from gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, stellar flares, and events within the Solar System, including emissions from comets.
- The satellite possesses a weight of approximately 1450 kg and an average power of around 1212 W in total.
