Berlin, Germany – The European Space Agency’s Euclid telescope is facing a chilling challenge as layers of frozen water molecules have been impacting its ability to observe the dark universe with precision. Despite the setback, the team behind the telescope is devising a plan to combat the freezing temperatures of space and keep Euclid operational.
Launched in July 2023, Euclid aims to study dark energy and dark matter using its visible light camera, near-infrared camera, and spectrometer. However, shortly after its launch, the team noticed a decline in the amount of light measured from stars observed by the telescope’s instruments. Calibration scientist Mischa Schirmer explained that this unexpected phenomenon led the team to discover layers of water molecules frozen onto Euclid’s mirrors, affecting its vision.
After months of investigation, the team suspects that the water molecules were absorbed during the spacecraft’s assembly on Earth and are now hindering its optical instruments in space. With Euclid stationed approximately one million miles away from Earth, where temperatures can plummet to -455 degrees Fahrenheit, the team is facing a critical challenge in maintaining the telescope’s functionality.
To address the issue, mission control has devised a plan to heat specific optical parts of the spacecraft using a decontamination procedure developed before launch. By strategically warming up certain mirrors, the team hopes to eliminate the ice buildup and restore Euclid’s ability to observe the dark universe with unparalleled sensitivity.
One of the key concerns is the potential impact of heating on the telescope’s mechanical structure, as it could lead to expansion that may hinder its functionality. Despite the risks, the team is determined to proceed with the de-icing procedure to ensure Euclid can continue its mission of surveying the sky with exceptional detail.
Although this experimental process poses uncertainties, the team remains optimistic about its potential to safeguard Euclid’s ability to capture data from ancient galaxies and small celestial bodies. With previous successful interventions to overcome technical glitches, including software patches for fine guidance sensors, the team is confident in Euclid’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
As Euclid embarks on this unprecedented de-icing procedure, the scientific community eagerly awaits the outcome, hopeful that the telescope will soon resume its critical mission of unraveling the mysteries of the dark universe.