Spektr-RG

Spektr-RG is an international high-energy astrophysics observatory that was launched into space in July 2019. It represents a significant collaboration between Russia and Germany, aiming to map X-ray emissions across the entire sky. The mission's primary goal is to explore the large-scale structure of the Universe, including the study of black holes, neutron stars, and the investigation of dark energy's role in cosmic expansion.

Overview

Spektr-RG (Spectrum-Röntgen-Gamma) is equipped with two main instruments: the eROSITA (extended ROentgen Survey with an Imaging Telescope Array) telescope, provided by Germany, and the ART-XC (Astronomical Roentgen Telescope — X-ray Concentrator), which is a Russian contribution. These instruments are designed to perform a comprehensive all-sky survey in the X-ray band, surpassing the coverage and sensitivity of previous missions.

Mission Objectives

The primary objectives of Spektr-RG include:

• Mapping the large-scale structure of the Universe and understanding the dynamics of cosmic expansion.
• Studying the physics of galactic clusters and the intergalactic medium.
• Investigating the nature of dark matter and dark energy.
• Cataloging X-ray sources such as active galactic nuclei, supernovae, and the remnants they leave behind.
• Exploring the magnetic fields and particle acceleration processes in neutron stars and black holes.

Instruments

eROSITA

The eROSITA telescope is designed to perform a deep survey of the entire sky in the medium energy X-ray range (0.5-10 keV). It consists of seven identical mirror modules, each with 54 nested mirror shells, aimed at achieving unprecedented sensitivity and spatial resolution.

ART-XC

The ART-XC instrument is focused on the higher energy band (4-30 keV). It features seven identical mirror modules with semiconductor detectors, capable of detecting X-rays with high energy resolution. This instrument complements eROSITA by extending the observatory's energy range, allowing for the detection of more energetic and rare cosmic phenomena.

Scientific Impact

Spektr-RG's all-sky survey is expected to revolutionize our understanding of the Universe. By providing a detailed X-ray map, it will help astronomers to identify and study millions of astronomical objects, shedding light on the most energetic processes in the Universe. The mission's findings will contribute to various fields of astrophysics, from galaxy formation and evolution to the study of cosmic background radiation.

Collaboration and Development

The development of Spektr-RG is a testament to international collaboration in the field of space research. The project brings together expertise and resources from Russian and German space agencies and research institutions, demonstrating the global interest in exploring the Universe's mysteries.

Launch and Orbit

Spektr-RG was launched on July 13, 2019, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, aboard a Proton-M rocket. It was placed in a halo orbit around the second Lagrange point (L2) of the Earth-Sun system, a stable position that minimizes the Earth and Moon's gravitational perturbations, ideal for astrophysical observations.

Future Prospects

The mission is planned to last for seven years, with the possibility of extension. The comprehensive data set collected by Spektr-RG will be invaluable for current and future astrophysical research, providing a legacy that will benefit the scientific community for decades to come.