Launch of the ROSAT satellite inside the custom-built fairing of a Delta-II rocket in June 1, 1990. "ROSAT" is an acronym for the German "Röntgensatellit" after the discoverer of X-rays, German physicist Wilhelm Röntgen.

The main components of the ROSAT satellite. The satellite and instruments were built in a collaborative effort of German, US, and UK institutes and institutions.

ROSAT in flight (artist's conception). After almost nine years of operations, ROSAT's remaining detector was switched off and the mission declared over on February 12, 1999.