IPAC (Infrared Processing and Analysis Center)

The Infrared Processing and Analysis Center (IPAC) is a specialized research facility that processes, analyzes, and manages data from infrared astronomy—studies of celestial objects emitting infrared light. Located at Caltech, it supports scientists worldwide by handling large datasets from space telescopes like NASA’s Spitzer and WISE. IPAC develops data tools, archives observations, and assists researchers in uncovering insights about the universe’s formation, evolution, and the lifecycle of stars and planets. Essentially, it transforms raw infrared data into meaningful information, enabling astronomers to explore the cosmos in this unique wavelength.