The Chandra X-Ray Observatory, a space telescope launched by NASA in 1999, might have to stop its work soon. The space telescope uses X-rays to look at the universe. It has helped people learn a lot about space, things that other telescopes couldn’t see. But, the telescope is getting old and can sometimes get too hot.
For the past few years, NASA has not had enough money to support all its projects. So, if the government agrees with new budget plans, the money for the Chandra telescope will be cut. This means that we won’t be able to use it to see space anymore.
At the moment, the telescope gets around $70 million every year. But in 2025 the money might be cut to $41 million. Then, a year later, to $26.6 million. In 2029, the money might drop to $5 million.
Scientists around the world, who love the telescope, hope that the government will change its mind. But, for now, the Chandra X-Ray Observatory’s future looks uncertain.
Vocabulary List:
- Observatory (noun): A building or place equipped and used for making observations of astronomicalmeteorologicalor other natural phenomena.
- Telescope (noun): An optical instrument designed to make distant objects appear nearercontaining an arrangement of lenses or curved mirrors and lenses.
- X-Ray (noun): A form of electromagnetic radiation.
- Budget (noun): An estimate of income and expenditure for a set period of time.
- Uncertain (adjective): Not able to be relied on not known or definite.
- Support (verb): Give assistance or encouragement to.
