Vela

Vela was the name of a 1960s military space program to detect nuclear tests through satellite observation using detectors for X-rays, gamma rays, and free neutrons. Various Vela satellites were launched over 1963 to 1970, their lifespans in the 5-15 year range. The satellites first detected gamma-ray bursts in 1967 before such bursts were known to exist, and after years of monitoring such unexplained bursts, being assured of their astrophysical origin, the program published their existence in 1973. The satellites also detected X-ray sources, in particular, X-ray bursts.

Vela is a constellation, its name used in designations of various astronomical objects located there, such as the Vela supernova remnant.