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The
task of Integral, ESA's International Gamma-Ray
Astrophysics Laboratory, will be to gather the
most energetic radiation that comes from space.
The spacecraft is scheduled for launch in October
2002 and will help to solve some of the biggest
mysteries in astronomy.
Gamma
rays are even more powerful than the X-rays
used in medical examinations. Fortunately, the
Earth's atmosphere acts as a shield to protect
us from this dangerous cosmic radiation. However
this means that gamma rays from space can only
be detected by satellites. Integral will be
the most sensitive gamma-ray observatory ever
launched. It will detect radiation from the
most violent events far away and from processes
that made the universe habitable.
Five
metres high and more than four tonnes in weight
- the Integral spacecraft is impressive. The
satellite has two main parts. The service module
is the lower part of the satellite and contains
all spacecraft subsystems. The payload module
is mounted on the service module and carries
the scientific instruments.
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