Talk about a stellar collab! China and France just launched a high-tech satellite named SVOM on June 22 after nearly 20 years of teamwork. This cosmic gadget will study mysterious gamma-ray bursts—brief flashes of energy brighter than a billion suns, often called the universe's 'fireworks.'
The satellite hitched a ride on a Long March-2C rocket and is now orbiting over 600 kilometers above Earth. Scientists say SVOM could unlock secrets about black holes, star explosions, and the early universe.
Fun fact: Gamma-ray bursts are so fleeting, SVOM has to be faster than your TikTok scroll reflex. It’s equipped to detect them in multiple wavelengths and alert ground telescopes within minutes!
This project’s a win-win: France brought cutting-edge X-ray tech, while China contributed the satellite platform and launch vehicle. Proving once again that science knows no borders!
Reference(s):
China launches new satellite developed in cooperation with France
cgtn.com