After a decade of work, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory has taken a giant leap forward in exploring the mysteries of the cosmos. Tests with the engineering test chamber “ComCam” have been a resounding success, proving that this ambitious project is poised to transform our understanding of the universe .
The cameras of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory
The 144-megapixel ComCam was essential for testing the observatory’s systems. By capturing thousands of images of the night sky, scientists were able to assess the optical quality of the 8.4-metre telescope, the sensitivity of its instruments and the ability to transmit large volumes of data. The results obtained were essential to ensure the success of the engineering tests.
The telescope is made up of three mirrors. Source: Rubin Observatory
With the next step in installing the LSST camera —the world’s largest—the Rubin Observatory is preparing to capture images of the night sky with unprecedented detail. With 3,200 megapixels and 189 CCD detectors (sensors) , the LSST camera has a field of view that is 21 times larger than ComCam’s. This means that each image will cover an area of the sky 45 times larger than the full Moon.
This breakthrough is the result of the joint efforts of thousands of scientists, engineers and technicians from around the world. Thanks to their dedication, the Rubin Observatory is on the verge of becoming the most powerful tool for exploring the universe.
Institutional support
It is important to mention that the Rubin Observatory is supported by two of the most important scientific institutions in the United States: the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy. NOIRLab and SLAC, recognized for their excellence in astronomy and particle physics, respectively, will join forces to operate this cutting-edge observatory.
The data collected by the Rubin Observatory will help answer fundamental questions about the universe, such as the nature of dark matter and dark energy. It will also help discover new planets , galaxies and cosmic phenomena never before imagined.
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Source and photo: Vera C. Rubin Observatory