JWST’s Optical Telescope Element
Chris Gunn/NASA
The Science Spotlight provides a sneak peek into the extraordinary project, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which has been in development for over three decades. Launched on Christmas Day in 2021, the telescope captured its first image in July 2022, revealing stunningly clear images of never-before-seen galaxies. Since then, it has made groundbreaking discoveries, including new exoplanets and insights into the area surrounding a supermassive black hole. The JWST’s findings have also challenged our understanding of the early universe and astronomical phenomena like nebulae.
The story of JWST’s conception, development, and launch is chronicled in the book “Inside the Star Factory” by photographer Chris Gunn and writer Christopher Wanjek. The book features captivating images, including one from 2017 that showcases JWST’s Optical Telescope Element (OTE), often referred to as its “eye.” The OTE consists of 18 gold-plated mirrors, which together form a 6.5-metre-wide reflector designed to capture infrared light.
One of the key features that distinguishes JWST from its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope, is its ability to observe in the infrared spectrum. This capability allows JWST to explore interstellar distances beyond what is visible to the naked eye. Additionally, JWST boasts a significantly larger reflector than Hubble, enabling the visualization of distant objects and phenomena that were previously inaccessible.
The OTE and reflector undergoing a nighttime inspection
Chris Gunn/NASA
The image above captures the OTE and reflector undergoing a nighttime, lights-off inspection. It demonstrates the care and attention to detail required in the assembly of this cutting-edge telescope. Another image shows the exciting moment when the mirrors were unveiled for the first time, as an engineer carefully examines the surface for any imperfections.
In the book, Gunn reflects on his experience standing near the awe-inspiring golden mirrors of JWST, describing them as a precious sight. “Inside the Star Factory” will be released on October 17, offering readers an intimate look into the making of this remarkable telescope.
Key Points:
- The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) took its first image in July 2022, revealing unprecedented clarity of never-before-seen galaxies.
- JWST sees in the infrared spectrum and has a larger reflector than the Hubble Space Telescope, allowing it to visualize distant objects and phenomena.
- The assembly and inspection of JWST’s Optical Telescope Element (OTE) and reflector require meticulous attention to detail.
- Photographer Chris Gunn and writer Christopher Wanjek document the journey of JWST in their book “Inside the Star Factory.”
