Infrared Space Observatory

The Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) was a satellite launched by the European Space Agency in 1995 to study the universe in infrared light. Unlike visible light, infrared can reveal objects hidden behind dust clouds, such as star-forming regions, distant galaxies, and planetary systems. Operating outside Earth's atmosphere, which absorbs much infrared radiation, ISO provided detailed data that enhanced our understanding of the universe's formation and composition. It collected information for about two years before decommissioning in 1998, significantly advancing astrophysics by opening a new window for observing cosmic phenomena.