40 Years of Infrared Astronomy: Through the Eyes of IRAS

Launched on January 25, 1983, the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) was the first space-based infrared telescope, and it revolutionized astronomy. From engineering innovations to technical breakthroughs in data processing, IRAS accomplished many feats, including producing the first-ever images of the infrared sky from space. The telescope helped kickstart modern-day infrared astronomy and paved the way for follow-on observatories, like Spitzer and JWST. In an interview with Caltech-IPAC Director George Helou, we celebrate the telescope’s legacy. Directed by: Isabel Swafford Produced by: Keith Miller, Robert Hurt, Gordon Squires Special thanks to George Helou and Chas Beichman Meet the Infrared Telescopes That Paved the Way for NASA’s Webb: https://www.ipac.caltech.edu/news/meet-the-infrared-telescopes-that-paved-the-way-for-nasa-s-webb