ESA’s X-ray Multi-Mirror (XMM) Ready for Launch

If all goes according to plans, the XMM will be launched aboard an Ariane 5 rocket on 10 December at between 9:32 and 10:08 AM.

According to ESA: “The European Space Agency’s X-ray Multi-Mirror satellite will be the most powerful X-ray telescope ever placed in orbit. It will have an unprecedented sensitivity and scientists are sure the mission will help solve many cosmic mysteries, ranging from enigmatic black holes to the formation of galaxies.”

“XMM, the largest ever science satellite ever built in Europe, carries three very advanced X-ray telescopes. They each contain 58 high-precision concentric mirrors, delicately nested to offer the largest collecting area possible to catch the elusive X-rays. These Mirror Modules will allow XMM to detect millions of sources, far greater than any previous X-ray mission.”

° Live Video of the Launch (Quicktime) from Arianespace

° Live Video of the Launch (RealVideo) from ESA

° ESA’s XMM website

° Launch of ESA’s XMM telescope on Ariane 504, ESA press release

° Green light for XMM launch on 10 December, ESA press release