Universe ID: 13013

NASA's Most Scientifically Complex Space Observatory Requires Precision

Released on July 25, 2018

The James Webb Space Telescope will be the world's premier space science observatory. Webb will solve mysteries of our solar system, look beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probe the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international project led by NASA with its partners, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).

The James Webb Space Telescope is one the most ambitious, and technically complex missions NASA has ever set its focus on. Building an infrared observatory of this magnitude, power and complexity has never been attempted before. In order to ensure seamless operation in space, the cutting-edge technology incorporated into Webb must be rigorously tested prior to launch.

The entire design of the Webb took years to develop, and was specifically engineered to see more of the cosmos than ever before. It required hundreds of scientists, engineers, optics experts and many others to pool their knowledge in a way that had never been done. Relying on the teamwork of three prominent space agencies: NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency, Webb has come to include over 1,200 people worldwide to bring the world’s newest and most powerful infrared observatory to life.

For More Information

http://www.nasa.gov/webb

Credits

Aaron E. Lepsch (ADNET Systems, Inc.): Technical Support
Michael McClare (KBR Wyle Services, LLC): Producer
Michael McClare (KBR Wyle Services, LLC): Lead Videographer
Michael McClare (KBR Wyle Services, LLC): Video Editor
Sophia Roberts (Advocates in Manpower Management, Inc.): Videographer
Michael P. Menzel (Advocates in Manpower Management, Inc.): Videographer
Chris Meaney (KBR Wyle Services, LLC): Animator
Dana Berry (Skyworks Digital): Animator

Please give credit for this item to:
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center