The James Webb Space Telescope — it’s designed to search the first galaxies formed after Big Bang

Oct 1, 2021

By: Shadab Rabbani

Credit: NASA

What is the James Webb Space Telescope?

A successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, it is a space-based observatory, optimized for infrared wavelength and considered to be a huge breakthrough in space research.

Credit: NASA

How is it better than the Hubble?

The James Webb telescope will have longer wavelength coverage and improved sensitivity than its predecessor.

Credit: NASA

Launch date of JWST

The much-awaited launch of the JWST is scheduled for December 18, 2021.

Credit: NASA

How will Webb be launched?

Webb will be launched on an Ariane 5 ECA rocket. The launch vehicle is part of the European contribution to the mission.

Credit: NASA

Goals of James Webb Telescope

Searching for the first galaxies, how they have evolved, observing the formation of stars and planets as well as investigating the potential for life in other planetary systems.

Credit: NASA

Cost of Webb Telescope

During its previously planned launch in 2010, its value was $1 billion. Now, its price tag has increased to $10 billion.

Credit: NASA

How far can the Webb Telescope see?

Scientists are expecting to see the very first-star formation in the Universe.

Credit: NASA

Weight of the Webb

The Webb will have a mass of around 6,500 kg and a weight of 14,300 lbs on Earth.

Credit: NASA

Size of telescope

The size of a telescope is measured by the diameter of the primary mirror, which is approximately 6.5 metre for the James Webb.

Credit: NASA

Countries involved in building the telescope

14 countries including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the USA.

Credit: NASA

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