James Webb Space Telescope
Infrared flagship revealing the early universe and exoplanet atmospheres.
Overview
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), launched December 2021, observes in infrared from the Sun-Earth L2 point, seeing the first galaxies and exoplanet atmospheres.
Why It Matters
JWST extends Hubble's legacy into infrared, piercing dust to reveal star birth and the early universe 300 million years after the Big Bang.
Scientific Explanation
6.5 m segmented beryllium mirror cooled to 40 K. Infrared penetrates dust clouds. NIRSpec and MIRI spectroscopy analyze exoplanet atmospheres. Early galaxies appear more massive than models predicted — tension driving new physics.
Historical Background
Successor to Hubble planned since 1990s. Launch delayed many times. Successful deployment at L2 (2022). Named for NASA administrator James Webb.
Visual Explanation
Sunshield the size of a tennis court keeps telescope cold. L2 orbit maintains stable thermal environment.
Key Discoveries
- ✦ Earliest galaxy candidates at z > 14
- ✦ Pillars of Creation in infrared detail
- ✦ CO₂ and other molecules in exoplanet atmospheres
- ✦ Ring nebula interior structure resolved
Important Astronomers
Reflection Prompt
JWST sees the universe's childhood. What questions about our own origins remain unanswered?
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