The Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer (RXTE), launched December 30, 1995,
was one of NASA' longest-operating and most productive space
astrophysics missions.  After 16 years of science operations and many
discoveries the observatory was decommissioned in early January of
this year. RXTE's high sensitivity, broad X-ray coverage (2 - 200
keV), flexible observing capability and fast timing opened a new
window onto the inner workings and extreme environs of compact
astrophysical sources, particularly black holes and neutron
stars. While a complete survey is beyond the scope of a single
colloquium, we will provide an overview of the mission and highlights
from RXTE's rich scientific legacy.