China sends dark matter probe into orbit

China launched the first in a series of planned space science probes Thursday, putting a satellite into orbit to study high-energy cosmic rays for signals hinting at hypothesized clumps of dark matter that have eluded detection for decades. The Dark Matter Particle Explorer, or DAMPE, mission is the first dedicated astrophysics observatory put into orbit by China. Fitted with detectors sensitive to gamma rays, electrons and high-energy cosmic rays, the DAMPE satellite will scoop up particles speeding through the cosmos and measure their energy, direction and electric charge, according to mission scientists. More

(Source: SpaceFlight Now - Dec 18)