The Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) was a satellite launched by NASA on November 18, 1989, and designed to study the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR) of the universe. The primary goals of COBE were to measure the CMBR's temperature and to explore the structure and anisotropies (small variations in temperature) within it.

The Qubic experiment (short for "QUBIC: Q & U B-mode Imaging Experiment") is a scientific project designed to investigate the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. Specifically, it focuses on detecting and characterizing the polarization of the CMB, particularly the B-mode polarization, which is a potential signature of gravitational waves from the early universe, such as those produced during cosmic inflation.

The Sunyaev–Zel'dovich Array (SZA) is a radio interferometer designed primarily for the study of the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich (SZ) effect, which entails the distortion of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) radiation caused by its interaction with hot gas in galaxy clusters. This effect can provide valuable information about the clusters, including their mass, distance, and the distribution of dark matter.

The Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) is a NASA spacecraft that was launched on June 30, 2001, and operated until August 2010. Its primary mission was to measure the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMB), which is the afterglow of the Big Bang and provides crucial information about the early universe.

Solar car races are competitions in which vehicles powered primarily by solar energy compete against each other. These cars are typically designed and built by teams, which can consist of universities, research institutions, or companies. The primary goal of solar car races is to promote the development and innovation of solar energy technologies and to demonstrate the potential of solar-powered transportation.

The POISK Centre, also known as the “POISK” (which translates to "Search" in Russian), is a search and rescue organization established in Russia. It primarily focuses on locating missing persons, including individuals who have gone missing in wilderness areas, as well as urban environments. The organization often utilizes technology, volunteer networks, and specialized training to assist in these efforts. POISK is typically involved in community-oriented activities, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and awareness in preventing disappearances.

The Geophysical Institute is typically an academic or research institution focused on the study of various geophysical phenomena, which may include areas such as geology, meteorology, oceanography, and seismology. These institutes are often affiliated with universities and conduct research, provide education, and develop technologies related to Earth sciences.

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) is a government agency in Hong Kong responsible for providing weather, meteorological, and geophysical services. Founded in 1883, its primary mission is to monitor and forecast weather conditions, issue warnings for severe weather events, and contribute to public safety and disaster preparedness. Key functions of the Hong Kong Observatory include: 1. **Weather Forecasting**: Producing daily weather forecasts, as well as specialized forecasts for different sectors and activities.

The Russian Mineralogical Society is a scientific organization dedicated to the study and advancement of mineralogy, geology, and related fields in Russia. Founded in 1806, it serves as a platform for researchers, professionals, and students interested in mineral sciences. The society promotes research, organizes conferences, publishes journals and literature, and facilitates collaboration among scientists in the field.

The Decennial Mineral Exploration Conferences are events that typically occur every ten years, focusing on the latest advancements, research, techniques, and practices in mineral exploration and mining. These conferences bring together geologists, geophysicists, mining engineers, environmental scientists, and industry professionals to share knowledge, discuss trends, and explore innovations in the field of mineral exploration. Usually, these conferences involve presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities.

The Mineralogical Society of America (MSA) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding of mineralogy and related fields. Founded in 1919, the society aims to promote scientific research and academic collaboration within the fields of mineralogy, crystallography, petrology, and geochemistry. The MSA provides various resources for its members, including publications such as journals (e.g., *American Mineralogist*), books, and field guides.

Fort de Vaujours is a former military installation located in the Seine-Saint-Denis department of France, near the town of Vaujours, northeast of Paris. It was constructed in the 19th century as part of the French defensive fortifications. Specifically, it was built between 1874 and 1878 to protect Paris from potential threats.

The Cherenkov Array at Themis refers to a telescope array designed for observing cosmic rays and high-energy gamma rays through the detection of Cherenkov radiation. Themis is a specific experimental site, often associated with the study of astrophysical phenomena. Cherenkov radiation is emitted when charged particles, such as electrons, travel through a dielectric medium (like air or water) at speeds greater than the speed of light in that medium.

The China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS) is a major research facility located in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China. It is designed for conducting advanced neutron scattering experiments, which are vital for a range of scientific fields, including materials science, biology, chemistry, and physics. The CSNS operates using a technique called spallation, where neutrons are produced by bombarding a target material (often made of heavy metals like tungsten or mercury) with high-energy protons.

The Maria reactor, also known as the Maria research reactor, is a nuclear research facility located in Poland. It is primarily used for research purposes, including neutron activation analysis, materials testing, and medical applications, such as the production of radioisotopes for cancer treatment and other medical uses. The reactor is operated by the National Centre for Nuclear Research (NCBJ) in Świerk, Poland.

In the context of National Physical Laboratory (NPL) measurement science, "Time" refers to precise timekeeping and measurements related to time standards. The NPL is known for its work in developing and maintaining national measurement standards, including time and frequency standards. MSF (Master Standard Frequency) is a time signal transmitted by the National Physical Laboratory in the UK, which provides accurate time and frequency information to users.

Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory (BAPL) is a research and development facility located in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. It is operated by the Naval Nuclear Laboratory, which is a part of the United States Department of Energy. BAPL specializes in the design, development, and testing of naval nuclear propulsion systems, primarily for the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier fleets.

Dubna is a city in Russia, located about 125 kilometers northeast of Moscow, on the banks of the Volga River. It is known primarily for hosting the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR), an international research organization that conducts scientific research in nuclear physics and related fields. JINR was established in 1956 and has played a significant role in various scientific discoveries and collaborations, bringing together scientists from multiple countries.

IGNITOR can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are a few possible interpretations: 1. **IGNITOR in Energy or Technology**: It may refer to a startup or project related to energy technology, particularly in the context of nuclear fusion research. For instance, the IGNITOR project is a significant initiative in fusion research aimed at producing controlled nuclear fusion.

ISTTOK (Isotope Separation by Torsion and Kinetic Energy) is a laboratory experiment designed mainly to investigate the behavior of high-temperature plasma in fusion research. The facility is located in Spain and is part of the effort to study various aspects of magnetic confinement fusion, including plasma stability and confinement time. ISTTOK is particularly notable for its use of a high-toroidal magnetic field and the generation of plasma that allows researchers to explore different operational regimes and the interaction of plasma with magnetic fields.