NASA's SPHEREx and PUNCH Missions Successfully Launch on SpaceX Falcon 9

The groundbreaking missions aim to map hundreds of millions of galaxies and study the sun's impact on the solar system.

NASA's SPHEREx telescope will create a 3D map of over 450 million galaxies, exploring the universe's origins and cosmic evolution.
The PUNCH mission consists of four small satellites that will study the sun's corona and solar wind, enhancing understanding of space weather.
SPHEREx will survey the sky in 102 infrared colors, identifying key ingredients for life like water and carbon compounds in the Milky Way.
PUNCH will provide 3D observations of the transition between the sun's corona and solar wind, helping predict solar storms and their effects on Earth.
Both missions launched together from Vandenberg Space Force Base, maximizing efficiency and scientific return through NASA's rideshare strategy.