Russia, China to launch space observatory

Russian and Chinese space agency officials say they will build and launch an ultraviolet space observatory to be placed into orbit in 2010.

The satellite will be fitted with a telescope to study the ultraviolet radiation of invisible celestial bodies in the galaxy's farthest areas, Russia's Novosti news agency reported.

"The technological base is Russian throughout, and the Chinese side will contribute by placing (the telescope) on board the station and getting a network of ground monitoring stations in the PRC up and running," said Russian Space Agency President Anatoly Perminov, who is visiting China.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International