Spitzer Space Telescope
The Spitzer Space Telescope was an infrared space observatory launched by NASA in 2003, which operated until 2020, providing insights into the early universe, exoplanets, and more.
Source: jpl.nasa.gov
APODs including "Spitzer Space Telescope"
Massive Star Forming Region DR21 in Infrared
14/04/2004
Deep in the normally hidden recesses of giant molecular cloud DR21, a stellar nursery has been found creating some of the most massive stars yet recorded. The orbiting Spitzer Space Telescope's Infrared Array Camera opened the window into the cloud last year in mid- infrared light. The cloud is opaque to visible light because of dense interstellar dust. Noticeable in the above representative color infrared Spitzer image are huge bubbles, a complex tapestry of dust and gas, and very massive stars. The infrared filaments actually glow because of organic compounds known as PAHs. The intricate patterns are caused by complex interactions between interstellar winds, radiation pressures, magnetic fields, and gravity. The pictured region spans about 75 light years and lies about 6,000 light years distant toward the constellation of Cygnus.