description Hitomi Overview
Hitomi, also designated ASTRO-H, was a Japanese X-ray astronomy satellite launched by JAXA on 17 February 2016. Developed with contributions from NASA, the European Space Agency, and Canada, it carried instruments for X-ray imaging and spectroscopy aimed at studying high-energy objects and hot astrophysical plasmas. A spacecraft control anomaly caused it to spin and break apart in March 2016, ending the mission after a short period of observations. [JAXA](https://global.jaxa.jp/projects/sat/astro_h/topics.html)
help Hitomi FAQ
What was Hitomi, or ASTRO-H?
Hitomi, also called ASTRO-H, was a Japanese X-ray astronomy satellite launched by JAXA on 17 February 2016. It was designed to study high-energy objects and processes in space.
What did Hitomi study?
The mission carried instruments for X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. These tools were intended to examine hot gas, black holes, galaxy clusters, and other high-energy phenomena.
Which organizations contributed to Hitomi?
JAXA led the mission, with contributions from NASA, the European Space Agency, and Canada. The international partnership supplied instruments and scientific expertise.
Why is Hitomi also called ASTRO-H?
ASTRO-H was the mission's development designation, while Hitomi became its operational name. Both names refer to the same Japanese X-ray astronomy satellite launched in 2016.
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