NASA - Unlocking the Origins of the Universe

The Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS-02), located on the International Space Station, is a key observatory for studying cosmic rays and subatomic particles to understand the universe's origins. Launched in 2011 with an expected lifespan of three years, AMS-02 has exceeded its life expectancy, still operational eight years later and having analyzed approximately 140 billion cosmic rays. Dr. Curt Costello, the ES program chief scientist at Johnson Space Center, highlighted ongoing spacewalks aimed at extending AMS-02's functionality by repairing its cooling systems, crucial for its continued operation and data collection on cosmic phenomena like dark matter.