Other Images

Diagram of the Lagrange Points associated with the Sun-Earth system. WMAP orbits around L2, which is about 1.5 million km from the Earth. Lagrange Points are positions in space where the gravitational forces of a two body system like the Sun and the Earth produce enhanced regions of attraction and repulsion. These can be used by spacecraft to reduce fuel consumption needed to remain in position.

Note: Image is not to scale

Credit: NASA / WMAP Science Team

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WMAP # 990528