KSC-04pd-2332
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Swift mission patch depicts both the spacecraft and the bird for which it was named. The observatory is named after a small, nimble bird that can grab up insects as it flies through the sky. Similarly, the observatory can swiftly turn and point its instruments to catch a gamma-ray burst 'on the fly' to study both the burst and its afterglow. This afterglow phenomenon follows the initial gamma-ray flash in most bursts and it can linger in X-ray light, visible light and radio waves for hours or weeks, providing great detail for observations.
Usage Rights
Most NASA images are in the public domain and free to use. Credit NASA as the source. Check NASA's media usage guidelines for details. Images featuring identifiable individuals may require additional permissions.
Details
NASA ID
04pd2332
Date Created
November 17, 2004
Center
KSC
Media Type
image
Photographer
NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Downloads
Download this image in multiple resolutions. All NASA media are free for public use.