3 ms·
The coldhead of one of these sensors (MIRI) functions optimally at temperatures less than 7˚K (i.e. 7˚ above absolute 0). The other sensors run at temperatures
by areoform 3y ago
The coldhead of one of these sensors (MIRI) functions optimally at temperatures less than 7˚K (i.e. 7˚ above absolute 0). The other sensors run at temperatures under 40˚K.
For reference, the melting point of nitrogen is, 63˚K.
Any sunlight at all would overwhelm this sensor and severely reduce the operational lifetime (and results!) of the telescope.
At L2, the telescope has the sun and the Earth behind a layered sunshield. It's easier to maintain position there and to have both objects always in the sol-ward direction while looking outwards.
- pfdietz 3y agoThere are telescopes on Earth that cool their detectors (not optics, though) well below that temperature. The SPT-3G at the South Pole, for example, has detectors at 3K.