Speakers: Robert Hurt (Caltech/IPAC)

Since July 2022, the world has been amazed by the incredible fidelity of the Webb Space Telescope's infrared view of the universe. Yet 2023 also marks anniversaries for two landmark missions that forged the path of infrared astronomy from space. IRAS, the Infrared Astronomical Satellite, opened the astronomical community’s eyes to the vast possibilities of the infrared universe 40 years ago. And 20 years ago, the Spitzer Space Telescope began plumbing new depths in the exploration of infrared celestial wonders.

Dr. Robert Hurt will look back across four decades of space-based infrared astronomy to examine how our understanding of the universe was fundamentally changed by accessing this non-visible part of the light spectrum from outside Earth’s obscuring atmosphere.

Recorded live on Tuesday, December 5, 2023.

The STScI Public Lecture Series offers talks on a diverse selection of cosmic topics, typically held the first Tuesday of every month. The 2023 Public Lecture Series is continuing an online-only format. This lecture will be presented with a livestream to YouTube, and questions can be asked in the YouTube chat. As usual, the recording will also be posted on our YouTube channel. We will, as necessary, adjust from the traditional first Tuesday at 8 PM schedule to accommodate our speakers.

Live and archived recordings:

• News and introductions
• Celebrating NASA’s 40-Year Legacy of Infrared Astronomy from Space (YouTube)