ESA's Gaia space telescope retires

The European Space Agency's Gaia space telescope has officially retired after a remarkable 12-year mission.

1. Launch and Mission Goals: 

 Gaia was launched in December 2013 with the goal of creating the most precise 3D map of the Milky Way galaxy. It aimed to study the positions, distances, motions, and properties of nearly two billion stars and other celestial objects.

The telescope tracked hundreds of thousands of asteroids and comets, enhancing our understanding of the solar system.

Retirement Process: On March 27, 2025, Gaia was deactivated and placed into a "retirement orbit" around the Sun to prevent interference with other missions.