NASA is set to launch ULTRASAT (Ultraviolet Transient Astronomy Satellite), Israel’s first space telescope. The goal is to launch ULTRASAT into geostationary orbit around Earth by early 2026, where its wide field of view will enable it to quickly discover and capture ultraviolet light from sources in the cosmos that change on short timescales.
After launching, astronomers will combine ULTRASAT’s observations of these short-term events with information from a variety of other missions, including those focusing on gravitational waves as well as particles. The ensuing results may provide insight on the workings of everything from black holes and gravitational wave sources to supernovae as well as active galaxies.
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This is a breakthrough project that places Israel at the forefront of global research. Leading international bodies such as NASA and the DESY research institute have joined this Israeli-led project as partners, having recognized its scientific significance. They are investing considerable resources in the construction and launch of the satellite to become active participants in this mission with access to its scientific products,” said Eli Waxman, astrophysicist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and ULTRASAT’s head researcher.
