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NASA and SpaceX have signed a contract to launch the NEO Surveyor space telescope, which will become the new guardian of the Earth in the search for potentially dangerous space objects. The telescope will replace its predecessor NEOWISE, which completed its work in November 2024, snob.ru reports.
The main feature of NEO Surveyor is its ability to work in the infrared spectrum. This revolutionary advantage will allow detecting even the darkest asteroids that are not visible during normal observation, but emit thermal radiation. The priority task will be to search for asteroids larger than 140 meters, a collision with which could have catastrophic consequences for the Earth.
NASA experts emphasize the critical importance of the project, noting that many potentially dangerous space objects still remain undetected. The new telescope will significantly expand the capabilities for early warning of space threats.
NASA is investing 100 million USD to implement this important mission. The telescope will be launched by a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral.