Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer

The Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) was a space telescope launched in 1995 that studied cosmic sources emitting X-rays, such as black holes, neutron stars, and black hole binaries. Its main purpose was to observe rapid variability in X-ray emissions, helping scientists understand extreme environments and the physics of matter under intense gravity. RXTE used sensitive detectors to measure X-ray brightness changes over milliseconds to days, providing valuable insights into the behavior of some of the universe’s most energetic and enigmatic objects. It operated until 2012, significantly advancing high-energy astrophysics research.