
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