Sloan Digital Sky Survey: Mapping Billions of Galaxies

  1. The Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) is one of the largest astronomical surveys ever undertaken.
  2. It began in 2000, using a dedicated 2.5-meter telescope in New Mexico.
  3. SDSS has mapped the positions and properties of millions of galaxies, stars, and quasars.
  4. Its data covers over one-third of the sky—an unprecedented cosmic map.
  5. The survey uses both imaging and spectroscopy to study celestial objects in detail.
  6. SDSS created the first 3D map of the universe, showing large-scale cosmic structures.
  7. It has helped confirm dark energy’s role in accelerating cosmic expansion.
  8. Astronomers worldwide use its open-access data for thousands of research projects.
  9. SDSS has revealed intricate details about the Milky Way’s structure and history.
  10. Its maps are a foundation for modern cosmology, guiding future telescopes and surveys.