The Euclid ‘Dark Universe’ Space Telescope Is Off to a Faltering Start

The Euclid space telescope, launched by the European Space Agency, is facing some challenges during its commissioning phase. As the telescope prepares to delve into the mysteries of the dark universe, engineers and scientists are working to resolve a few issues that have arisen. The telescope’s fine guidance sensors are occasionally losing track of stars, stray sunlight is entering the early images, and unwanted X-rays are reaching the detector. While these problems may impact the telescope’s work, they do not threaten its overall mission. Despite these setbacks, the team remains optimistic and continues to work towards resolving the issues. With careful attention and mitigation strategies, the Euclid telescope will soon embark on its mission to survey the universe and unlock its darkest secrets.

This image is property of i.kinja-img.com.

Overview of Euclid Space Telescope

The Euclid space telescope, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in July, aims to study the dark universe, which comprises dark energy and dark matter, accounting for about 95% of everything. Equipped with a visible light camera (VIS), a near-infrared camera, and spectrometer (NISP), Euclid has faced some challenges during its commissioning phase.

Launch and Purpose

Euclid was launched from Earth on July 1, and its primary mission is to investigate the dark universe. By studying dark energy and dark matter, Euclid hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe. Its launch marked an important milestone in space exploration, and the telescope carries the hopes and expectations of scientists and astronomers worldwide.

Current Issues

During the commissioning process, several issues have emerged that require attention and resolution. These issues include the loss of track of stars by the telescope’s fine guidance sensors, stray sunlight sneaking into the telescope’s early images, and the presence of X-rays reaching Euclid’s detectors due to unwanted sunlight. While these issues do not threaten the overall mission of Euclid, they could impact its ability to carry out its work effectively.

Fine Guidance Sensor Issue

One of the issues that have been identified during Euclid’s commissioning phase is the occasional loss of track of stars by the telescope’s fine guidance sensors. This system of optical sensors allows the telescope to lock onto stars accurately and precisely point at a region of the sky for imaging. However, inconsistent locking onto stars has been observed.

To address this issue, the Euclid team has developed a software fix that has been tested on a spacecraft simulator and a replica of Euclid at mission control. Initial tests have shown promising results, with many more stars being detected. While more observations are needed to confirm the effectiveness of the fix, the signs are encouraging, bringing optimism to the team.

This image is property of i.kinja-img.com.

Stray Light Issue

Another issue that has been identified is the appearance of stray light in Euclid’s VIS instrument at certain angles. This stray light is believed to be caused by sunlight reflecting off a thruster bracket that extends beyond the shadow produced by the spacecraft’s sunshield. The reflected light is interfering with some of the instrument’s test observations.

Addressing this issue may require different approaches. The Euclid team is considering repeat observations and data processing techniques to reduce the impact of stray light on observations. Additionally, the telescope’s survey can be reprogrammed to mitigate the influence of sunlight.

X-ray Issue

Euclid’s detectors have been affected by X-rays produced by solar flares. These X-rays can reach the detectors at certain angles, leading to the distortion of the telescope’s data. An analysis of the telescope has revealed that if this issue is not addressed, Euclid could lose up to 3% of its data depending on solar activity.

To mitigate the impact of X-rays on observations, the team is exploring options such as repeat observations and data processing techniques. By refining these approaches, Euclid’s ability to provide accurate and reliable data can be preserved.

This image is property of i.kinja-img.com.

Commissioning Process

The commissioning process is an essential phase for any space telescope, allowing for the setup and calibration of the telescope’s instruments and systems for scientific observations. While the process takes time, it is crucial to ensure that the telescope is fully operational and capable of fulfilling its mission objectives.

When comparing Euclid’s commissioning process with that of the Webb Space Telescope, it is important to note that each telescope faces unique challenges. Webb’s commissioning went relatively smoothly, with the exception of a minor issue caused by a micrometeoroid impact. By learning from past experiences and applying the necessary adjustments, the Euclid team aims to ensure a successful commissioning phase.

Timeline and Purpose

The timeline for Euclid’s commissioning process is dependent on the resolution of the identified issues and the successful implementation of fixes and adjustments. The purpose of the commissioning process is to verify and validate the telescope’s performance through rigorous testing and calibration.

Comparison with Webb Space Telescope

While Euclid’s commissioning process may have encountered some challenges, it is important to remember that every space telescope has its own unique journey. Comparing Euclid’s commissioning process with that of the Webb Space Telescope can provide valuable insights and lessons learned, enabling the Euclid team to make informed decisions and adjustments during their own commissioning process.

Optimism and Future Plans

Despite the challenges faced during Euclid’s commissioning phase, the team remains optimistic about the telescope’s potential. Initial tests of the software fix for the fine guidance sensor issue have shown positive results, with more stars being detected. This progress brings hope that the fix will continue to prove effective.

Positive Test Results

Euclid’s initial test images, released a month after its launch, showcased the capabilities and potential of the telescope. Despite the identified issues, the images looked great, highlighting the exciting scientific discoveries that lie ahead once the telescope is fully operational.

Performance Verification Phase

The restart of the performance verification phase is drawing nearer every day. This phase will provide absolute certainty regarding Euclid’s pointing performance. While the Euclid team remains cautiously optimistic, they understand that only the science images can confirm the telescope’s capabilities fully.

Mitigation Strategies

To address the stray light and X-ray issues, the team is actively exploring mitigation strategies. These strategies involve repeat observations, data processing techniques, and reprogramming the telescope’s survey. Through these methods, the impact of stray light and X-rays on Euclid’s observations can be minimized, allowing for more accurate and reliable data.

This image is property of i.kinja-img.com.

Conclusion

The importance of Euclid’s mission cannot be overstated. By studying dark energy and dark matter, Euclid aims to unravel the mysteries of the dark universe, providing valuable insights into the fundamental nature of our cosmos. While the commissioning process has faced its fair share of challenges, the Euclid team remains hopeful and determined to overcome them.

The successful survey of the universe by Euclid holds the promise of groundbreaking discoveries and a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos. With continued efforts, adjustments, and mitigation strategies, Euclid’s mission can thrive, paving the way for future generations of astronomers and scientists.

Hope for a successful survey fills the minds of those involved in the Euclid mission, as they strive to unlock the secrets of the dark universe and shed light on the mysteries of our vast cosmos.

Source: https://gizmodo.com/euclid-space-telescope-faltering-start-1850888158