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