Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer. Sparkling reflections and the bright limb of the Earth are visible in this 1991 window view of Compton's release into orbit by the crew of the Space Shuttle Atlantis. From its post over 240 miles above the Earth's surface , the 17 ton satellite still experiences enough atmospheric drag to cause its orbit to deteriorate over time. But NASA controllers have just completed a complex two month long series of firings of Compton's on-board thrusters which has raised its orbit to an altitude of over 300 miles.
Specific rights apply .