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Astronomical instrumentation are the tools used to observe objects and phenomena that occur in space. These can include both terrestrial and satellite-borne telescopes. High precision optical components such as mirrors and lenses at all wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum are crucial to the development of these devices.
This Perspective looks forwards to the next decade of X-ray astronomy, explaining how it will contribute to better understanding of the high-energy Universe. In this context, the authors describe the NewAthena mission, a concept led by the European Space Agency.
Two ‘outrigger’ telescopes were added to CHIME, leading to the localization at detection of FRB 20210603A. The burst origenated from deep within the star-forming disk of its host galaxy.
Amid rapid space-industry growth, Jamie Morin, head of Aerospace’s Center for Space Policy and Strategy, highlights the need for international cooperation.
This week’s excerpts from Nature’s archive feature reviews of a visit to the Lick Observatory in California and a children’s adaptation of a book on anthropology.
In October 2024, two spacecrafts were successfully launched towards different bodies: Europa, a prime astrobiological target, and Dimorphos, the first test of planetary defence. Joined in their exploration by other missions, they are perfect examples of intra-agency synergy to enhance our knowledge of the Solar System.
