China-France Satellite Launched to Study Universe’s Most Powerful Explosions

The SVOM satellite aims to unlock mysteries of gamma-ray bursts, marking a significant collaboration between Chinese and French space agencies.

The SVOM satellite will observe gamma-ray bursts, the brightest explosions in the universe, to study cosmic evolution.
Equipped with four instruments, SVOM combines French and Chinese technology for high-precision observations.
Gamma-ray bursts can release energy equivalent to billions of suns and occur during the collapse of massive stars or merging of compact stars.
The mission highlights rare space cooperation between Western powers and China, overcoming technological and political barriers.
A rocket booster from the launch fell near a residential area, causing concerns over toxic fuel exposure.