With reference to the Global Astrometric Interferometer for Astrophysics (GAIA) mission, consider the following statements: 1. Its main goal is to create the most accurate 3D map of our galaxy by tracking over a billion stars. 2. Photometer was used to measure the precise positions of stars in the mission. 3. It has been launched by the European Space Agency (ESA). How many of the statements given above are correct? |ForumIAS

Q. With reference to the Global Astrometric Interferometer for Astrophysics (GAIA) mission, consider the following statements:
1.Its main goal is to create the most accurate 3D map of our galaxy by tracking over a billion stars.
2.Photometer was used to measure the precise positions of stars in the mission.
3.It has been launched by the European Space Agency (ESA).
How many of the statements given above are correct?

[A] Only one

[B] Only two

[C] All three

[D] None

Answer: B

Notes:

Explanations –

Statements 1 and 3 are correct. The Gaia mission, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA), aims to create the most precise three-dimensional map of the Milky Way by surveying nearly two billion celestial objects, including over a billion stars. Gaia was launched by ESA in December 2013.

Statement 2 is incorrect. The precise positions of stars were measured using Gaia’s astrometric instrument, not the photometer.

Source: Forum IAS

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