Q. What is the primary objective of the XRISM satellite mission, that was recently making news?
Answer:
Observing the X-ray cosmos
Notes: The XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission) satellite mission, a collaborative effort led by Japan's JAXA, along with NASA and ESA, primarily aims to observe and study the X-ray cosmos. Launched on September 6, 2023, XRISM's mission is to scrutinize the universe's hottest regions, largest structures, and objects with the strongest gravity. This is achieved through advanced technology capable of detecting X-rays with energies up to 12,000 electron volts. The mission is equipped with two significant instruments, Resolve and Xtend, each contributing uniquely to the exploration of the cosmos. Resolve analyzes the chemical compositions, temperatures, densities, and motion directions of celestial objects, as demonstrated by its detailed examination of N132D, a supernova remnant in the Large Magellanic Cloud. Xtend complements this by capturing wide-field X-ray images, like its observation of Abell 2319, a galaxy cluster undergoing a merger. XRISM's mission signifies a major advancement in our understanding of the universe beyond the capacities of visible light, providing more detailed chemical maps and insights into the dynamic processes governing the cosmos.