1991day.year
The Space shuttle Atlantis launches on STS-37 to deploy the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory.
On April 5, 1991, Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on mission STS-37, deploying NASA’s Compton Gamma Ray Observatory to study high-energy cosmic phenomena.
STS-37 marked Atlantis’s 36th mission and its first launch of 1991 from Cape Canaveral.
The primary objective was to deploy the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, the second of NASA’s Great Observatories.
Astronauts conducted multiple spacewalks to activate and release support equipment for the telescope.
Once operational, the observatory scanned the universe for gamma-ray sources, revealing insights into black holes and supernovae.
The mission showcased Atlantis’s capability for complex satellite deployments and extravehicular activities.
Compton would remain in orbit for nine years, making groundbreaking discoveries before its controlled deorbit in 2000.
Space shuttle Atlantis
STS-37
Compton Gamma Ray Observatory
2009day.year
North Korea launches its controversial Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 satellite. The satellite passed over mainland Japan, which prompted an immediate reaction from the United Nations Security Council, as well as participating states of Six-party talks.
North Korea launches its Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 satellite on April 5, 2009, drawing international condemnation when it passes over Japan.
On April 5, 2009, North Korea successfully launched its Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 satellite aboard a Taepodong-2 rocket, claiming it was for peaceful purposes. The satellite's trajectory over mainland Japan triggered immediate protests from Tokyo and emergency UN Security Council consultations. Critics argued the launch was a veiled test of ballistic missile technology banned under UN resolutions. The event escalated tensions in the Six-Party Talks aimed at denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. Participating countries, including the US, China, Russia, South Korea, and Japan, condemned the launch and imposed further sanctions. The incident underscored concerns over North Korea's missile capabilities and nuclear ambitions. It also highlighted the limitations of international diplomacy in curbing Pyongyang's weapons development. The aftermath saw increased missile defense measures in the region.
2009
North Korea
Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2
Japan
United Nations Security Council
Six-party talks
2010day.year
Space Shuttle Discovery is launched on STS-131 to resupply the International Space Station.
Space Shuttle Discovery lifts off on mission STS-131, carrying supplies to the International Space Station.
On April 5, 2010, NASA's Space Shuttle Discovery embarked on mission STS-131 to resupply the International Space Station. The shuttle carried over 7,000 pounds of equipment and experiments, including the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. Discovery's crew of seven conducted research on plant growth, fluid physics, and advanced robotics. The mission featured the installation of new storage racks and the replacement of the station's toilet system. Spacewalks during the flight allowed astronauts to service external instruments and handrails. STS-131 marked Discovery's 38th flight and continued the shuttle program's legacy of supporting orbital science. The mission successfully returned to Earth on April 20, 2010, ending a two-week operation. It underscored the shuttle's vital role in maintaining the ISS until the program's retirement.
Space Shuttle Discovery
STS-131
International Space Station