International Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory
    ESA
    Roscosmos
    NASA
    Active

    International Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory

    Launched: October 17, 2002

    Overview

    INTEGRAL is ESA's gamma-ray observatory capable of simultaneous observations in gamma-ray, X-ray, and visible wavelengths. It provides unique insights into the most energetic processes in the universe and the dynamics of high-energy cosmic events.

    Primary Objectives

    • Study the most violent and exotic objects in the universe
    • Investigate nucleosynthesis and complex physics of highly energetic objects
    • Map gamma-ray sources in the Milky Way
    • Study particle acceleration processes

    Notable Discoveries

    • Discovered hundreds of new gamma-ray sources
    • Found evidence of antimatter positrons originating from the center of the Milky Way
    • Helped unravel the mechanisms behind gamma-ray bursts
    • Mapped the distribution of aluminum-26 isotope in our galaxy

    Technical Specifications

    Size

    5 m × 5 m × 4 m

    Weight

    4,000 kg

    Orbit

    Highly elliptical, 10,000 km × 153,000 km

    Mission Lifetime

    18+ years (greatly exceeded original plan)

    Quick Facts

    Wavelengths

    Gamma-ray
    X-ray

    Operating Agencies

    ESA
    Roscosmos
    NASA

    Current Status

    Active