Herschel: Undergoing shock and vibration tests

[n_kitson]

ESA has some new videos of Herschel, this time undergoing shock and vibration testing: link<br /><br />For those not familiar with Herschel, the mission is an infrared space observatory. Herschel is exciting for a number of reasons, but the "cool factor" is that it will be the largest IR observatory ever and that it will be stationed at L2. The latter requires a four month journey.<br /><br />Herschel will launch in July 2007 on an Ariane 5. It will be launched on the same vehicle as Planck, which is another interesting space observatory mission to investigate microwave radiation.<br />

 

[haywood]

Thank you Kitson.<br />It would be helpful if you would explain what "L2" is for those new to the Forums.<br />Cheers.