China's Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy, or LEIA, has captured the first-ever photos of celestial entities in space.
The x-ray imaging telescope, which was first launched four months ago, is set to be an important astronomical instrument for future explorations.
Lobster Eye X-Ray Telescope Delivers its First Images
(Photo : Ren Ran from Unsplash)
According to Space.com, China first published the early images captured by LEIA, which features the Cygnus Loop nebula and the Scorpius X-1 binary star system.
The x-ray imaging telescope makes use of 36 plates which are guided by two pairs of imaging sensors. These parts are responsible for reflecting X-rays toward the subject.
Through lobster eye micro-pore optics, the results proved that the x-ray imaging telescope has more room for development when it comes to astronomical observation, according to the authors.
The authors added that the telescope has an impressive "sky monitoring" feature which goes well with scanning soft X-rays. Apart from that, this observatory has a true imaging capability and a big observing field of view which makes it a good tool for exploring the universal skies.
The Chinese team has struggled to place LEIA in orbit, knowing it's only sitting in thin glass plates.
For reference, they are 2 mm in thickness, so they are very delicate considering that they need to withstand the conditions during the rocket launch.
China is Experimenting With Einstein Probe
The Lobster Eye Imager is apparently a part of China's attempt to experiment with the Einstein Probe. Space News previously reported that this space observatory was slated to take off in 2023.
Speaking of which, 12 LEAI modules are contained in the Wide-field X-ray telescope of the Einstein Probe. It's an important part of cosmic viewing, especially when observing black holes, supernovas, and other astronomical disruptions.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences spearheaded the mission which is in line with the Strategic Priority Program of the country when it comes to Space Science.
To view the latest version of the study entitled "First wide field-of-view X-ray observations by a lobster eye focusing telescope in orbit," visit this PDF link to see the entirety of the research.
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China to Focus on Building Nuclear Plants on Moon
In the next few years, China is going to construct nuclear-powered moon bases as part of its space program development. The country, which is slowly catching up with the US, will aim to send astronauts to the lunar surface by 2028.
Tech Times reported that the Chang'e 6, 7, and 8 missions would prompt the construction of the special station. The facility is expected to contain a rover, an orbiter, a lander, and a hopper.
If China succeeds in its moon exploration, there's a chance that it might surpass the US one day in the space race.
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Written by Joseph Henry
