Russian specialists from NPO named after S. A. Lavochkin are developing a unique space observatory "Spektr-M", capable of exploring the most mysterious objects in the Universe — up to hypothetical "wormholes". According to the organization, the device will become the most sensitive and "sharp-sighted" instrument in the millimeter range of wavelengths among all ever created and planned telescopes.
Engineers have already made a model of the main mirror system — a key element of the observatory. In parallel, work is underway on an onboard cryogenic cooling system. It will make "Spektr-M" one of the most "cold" observatories in the history of astronomy. The low temperature of the equipment is critical for registering extremely weak signals from deep space: the less thermal noise, the clearer distant objects are visible.
NPO named after S. A. Lavochkin noted that the combination of record sensitivity and high angular resolution in the millimeter range will open up new opportunities for studying the evolution of the Universe. The device will be able to receive data about objects that today remain only theoretical models.
The development is being carried out in cooperation with Roscosmos. After being launched into orbit, "Spektr-M" will be able to scan the structures of space-time, test fundamental physical theories, and record radiation from objects inaccessible to modern telescopes.
"Spektr-M" could become a breakthrough in space astrophysics: an instrument capable of "seeing the invisible" offers a chance to test hypotheses that have remained in the realm of pure theory for decades. If "wormholes" really exist, the Russian observatory has a chance to record their traces — and rewrite textbooks on cosmology.
