2MASS (Two Micron All Sky Survey)

The Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS) was a comprehensive project completed in 2001 that mapped the entire sky in infrared light, specifically at wavelengths around two microns. Infrared light can see through dust clouds that often obscure stars and galaxies in visible light. By capturing this data, 2MASS created detailed images and catalogs of billions of celestial objects, helping astronomers study the structure of the universe, the distribution of stars and galaxies, and the formation of cosmic structures. It provided a foundational resource for astrophysics research, offering a clearer view of the universe beyond visible light.