Infrared astronomy, also known as thermal astronomy, refers to the study of celestial objects and phenomena in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum. This includes observations of stars, planets, interstellar matter, and other objects emitting infrared radiation. Other synonyms for infrared astronomy include infrared astrophysics, thermal astrophysics, and infrared imaging astronomy. Infrared observations have proven invaluable for understanding the formation and evolution of galaxies, and for detecting the presence of planets outside our solar system. With advances in technology, the field is constantly growing, and new discoveries are being made that continue to shape our understanding of the universe.