Vela

Vela was the name of a 1960s military space program to detect nuclear tests through satellite observation, which is credited with discovering the existence of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), an astronomical phenomenon. The satellites incorporated 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 GRBs in 1967 before such bursts were known to exist, and after years of monitoring such unexplained bursts, and after becoming convinced they were of astrophysical origin, the program finally published their existence in 1973. The satellites also detected X-ray sources, in particular, X-ray bursts.

Vela is the name of a constellation, and in addition to use of the name for the above program, the name is used in designations of various astronomical objects located in the constellation, such as the Vela supernova remnant.