Chandra X-Ray Observatory Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The Chandra X-Ray Observatory is a crucial tool that astronomers use to understand the nature and history of the high energy universe. It covers an important area of the electromagnetic spectrum, X-rays, that are not detectable from the ground. Without Chandra and its vantage point in space, we would be blind to many of the most fascinating aspects of the universe. This year, we celebrate Chandra’s 20th anniversary.
Chandra’s Origins
Originally named AXAF, it was renamed Chandra to honor Subramanyan “Chandra” Chandrasekhar, the Indian American physicist and 1983 Nobel laureate. Chandra is the first space telescope named for a person of color, according to National Geographic.
