The Universe, Unfolded: NASA Webb Space Telescope • Kenneth Harris II • GOTO 2023

Discover the incredible capabilities of the NASA James Webb Space Telescope, its alignment process, and how its observations are revolutionizing our understanding of the universe, from distant galaxies to exoplanet properties.

Key takeaways

James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a complex project with seven phases of alignment over three weeks.
The telescope’s mirrors are segmented, with 18 individual mirrors that need to be aligned within a margin of error of 1.5 inches.
The alignment process involves coarse phasing, fine phasing, and image stacking to ensure the mirrors work together as a single unit.
The JWST is designed to detect infrared light, which is perfect for observing distant galaxies and stars.
The telescope has already produced stunning images, including a galaxy cluster with thousands of galaxies and the Cat’s Paw Nebula.
JWST can see through dust and gas in the universe, allowing it to study exoplanets and their properties.
The telescope’s instruments are sensitive to the wavelengths of light emitted by the universe, allowing it to study the formation of stars and galaxies.
JWST’s observations can help scientists better understand the universe’s evolution and the properties of exoplanets.
The telescope’s alignment process is critical, as even small errors can affect its ability to collect data.
JWST’s images are not simply pretty pictures, but rather data that scientists use to study the universe.
The telescope’s instruments are capable of detecting the chemical and physical properties of molecules and atoms in the universe.
JWST’s observations can help scientists understand the origins of life in the universe.
The telescope’s alignment process involves multiple steps, including coarse phasing, fine phasing, and image stacking.
JWST’s data will help scientists better understand the universe and its mysteries.
The telescope’s observations can help scientists study exoplanets and their properties.
JWST’s images are not affected by the Earth’s atmosphere, which makes them clearer and more detailed.
The telescope’s instruments are capable of detecting light from distant galaxies and stars.
JWST’s observations can help scientists better understand the universe’s evolution and the properties of exoplanets.
The telescope’s alignment process is critical, as even small errors can affect its ability to collect data.

The Universe, Unfolded: NASA Webb Space Telescope • Kenneth Harris II • GOTO 2023

More talks