# IRAS

> space observatory

**Wikidata**: [Q724913](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q724913)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IRAS)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/iras

## Summary
IRAS (Infrared Astronomical Satellite) was a space observatory designed to observe distant space objects from outer space. Launched on January 26, 1983, it operated as a space telescope with a primary mirror diameter of 0.57 meters and a mass of 1,073 kilograms.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date:** January 26, 1983
- **Launch Site:** Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2
- **Launch Vehicle:** Delta 3000
- **Mass:** 1,073 kilograms
- **Telescope Diameter:** 0.57 metres
- **Orbital Period:** 103 minutes
- **Orbit Type:** Sun-synchronous orbit and polar orbit
- **Classification:** Space telescope / Space observatory
- **COSPAR ID:** 1983-004A
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 13777

## FAQs
### Q: What was IRAS?
A: IRAS was a space telescope and observatory designed for observing distant space objects. It is classified as an infrared astronomical satellite.

### Q: When and how was IRAS launched?
A: IRAS was launched on January 26, 1983, using a Delta 3000 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2.

### Q: What were the orbital specifications of IRAS?
A: The satellite operated in a Sun-synchronous polar orbit with an orbital period of 103 minutes.

## Why It Matters
IRAS serves as a historical milestone in space-based astronomy as a dedicated space observatory. By operating as a space telescope, it allowed for the observation of distant space objects outside the interference of Earth's atmosphere, utilizing a 0.57-meter diameter instrument to conduct its mission. Its launch on January 26, 1983, aboard the Delta 3000 system marked a specific application of American expendable launch technology for scientific inquiry.

The satellite's placement into a Sun-synchronous polar orbit (with a 103-minute period) was critical for its operational goals, allowing consistent observation conditions. Weighing 1,073 kilograms, the satellite represents a significant deployment of mass and technical capability for its time, cataloged under the international identifier COSPAR 1983-004A.

## Notable For
- **Classification:** Defined distinctly as a "space telescope" and "space observatory" designed for infrared astronomy.
- **Orbital Profile:** Utilized a specific Sun-synchronous polar orbit with a rapid 103-minute orbital period.
- **Launch Configuration:** Deployed via the Delta 3000 series, an American expendable launch system.
- **Dimensions:** Featured a 0.57-meter diameter mirror and a total mass exceeding one ton (1,073 kg).
- **Naming:** Known globally by various aliases, including "Infrared Astronomical Satellite" and "Telescope spatial IRAS."

## Body
### Mission Overview
IRAS was an infrared astronomical satellite functioning as a space observatory. Its primary function was that of a space telescope, an instrument positioned in outer space to observe distant space objects.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite had a total mass of 1,073 kilograms. The primary instrument featured a diameter of 0.57 metres. It was assigned the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 13777 and the COSPAR ID 1983-004A.

### Launch and Deployment
The significant event of the rocket launch took place on January 26, 1983. The launch originated from the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2. The vehicle used to propel the observatory into space was the Delta 3000, a series of American expendable launch systems.

### Orbital Characteristics
Once deployed, IRAS operated as a satellite in a polar orbit, specifically a Sun-synchronous orbit. It circled its path with an orbital period of 103 minutes.

### Identifiers and Aliases
The entity is referenced by multiple identifiers and titles across different languages and databases:
*   **Aliases:** Infrared Astronomical Satellite, IR Astronomy Satellite, Satélite astronomico infrarrojo, Telescope spatial IRAS.
*   **Library IDs:** GND ID 4499149-6, Library of Congress Authority ID n85330679.
*   **Web Resource:** Official mission information is archived at http://irsa.ipac.caltech.edu/Missions/iras.html.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report