Watch Live: NASA Launches a Space Telescope That May Redefine the Universe’s Origins

NASA is preparing for an exciting dual-mission launch featuring SPHEREx, a space telescope designed to uncover the universe’s history and search for life’s building blocks, and PUNCH, a mission that will study the Sun’s outer layers and solar wind.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will carry both missions into space from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch window opens on Friday, February 28, at 10:09 p.m. EST (7:09 p.m. PST). NASA will provide live coverage on NASA+.

Mission Objectives

• SPHEREx will investigate how the universe evolved and identify key molecules linked to life in our galaxy.
• PUNCH consists of four small spacecraft that will track how the Sun’s corona transitions into solar wind, shaping space weather.

Prelaunch Events & Coverage

NASA will host live-streamed briefings leading up to launch:

Tuesday, February 25 – Science Overview (2 p.m. EST)

Experts will discuss the science goals of SPHEREx and PUNCH, featuring NASA astrophysics and heliophysics leaders.

Thursday, February 27 – Prelaunch News Conference (3:30 p.m. EST)

NASA officials, project managers, and SpaceX representatives will provide mission updates and discuss launch preparations.

Launch Day Coverage – Friday, February 28

• 12 p.m. – SPHEREx & PUNCH Launch Preview (NASA+)
• 9:15 p.m. – Live launch coverage begins
• 10:09 p.m. – Launch window opens

How to Watch & Participate

NASA’s website will feature live updates, streaming links, and behind-the-scenes coverage. The public can also register for NASA’s virtual guest program, which includes curated launch resources, real-time notifications, and a digital stamp for the NASA virtual guest passport.

Read Original Article: Sci Tech Daily

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