The Swift Gamma Ray Burst Explorer

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Type of observatory:

Description:
NASA's Swift Gamma Ray Burst Explorer, which orbits Earth 370 miles up, explores the universe in the optical, ultraviolet, X rays, and gamma rays. Swift has revolutionized astronomers' understanding of gamma-ray bursts -- the biggest explosions since the big bang. In between these almost daily blasts, Swift is making the most detailed survey of the sky in high-energy X rays and is studying supernovae, galaxies and comets. Swift was launched in late 2004.

Location: Space/USA
Latitude: +38.998994
Longitude: -76.853356

Watch the recorded movie of the event here.

Go to SWIFT website [external link]

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