Galaxy Evolution Explorer was a NASA orbiting space telescope designed to observe the universe in ultraviolet wavelengths to measure the history of star formation in the universe. In addition to paving the way for future ultraviolet missions, the space telescope allowed astronomers to uncover mysteries about the early universe and how it evolved, as well as better characterize phenomena like black holes and dark matter. GALEX was launched on 28 April 2003 for a 29-month primary mission, which was extended three times before the spacecraft was placed into standby mode on 7 February 2012, and decommissioned in June 2013.