James Webb Space Telescope

Science

The James Webb Space Telescope is the most powerful observatory ever built and launched. Learn how this extraordinary machine works, where it is, and what it has already shown us about the earliest galaxies, stellar nurseries, and worlds beyond our solar system.

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11
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5–10 min
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Q1 Question 1 of 11

When was the James Webb Space Telescope launched?

Q2 Question 2 of 11

Where does the James Webb Space Telescope orbit?

Q3 Question 3 of 11

How large is the James Webb Space Telescope's primary mirror?

Q4 Question 4 of 11

What type of light does Webb primarily observe?

Q5 Question 5 of 11

Why does Webb need to observe in infrared to see the first galaxies that formed after the Big Bang?

Q6 Question 6 of 11

What is the purpose of Webb's sunshield?

Q7 Question 7 of 11

How far back in cosmic history can Webb see?

Q8 Question 8 of 11

What groundbreaking atmospheric detection did Webb make for the first time in exoplanet science?

Q9 Question 9 of 11

Which objects within our own solar system has Webb already imaged with new detail?

Q10 Question 10 of 11

Why was it such a technological challenge to build and launch the James Webb Space Telescope?

Q11 Question 11 of 11

Why is gold used as the coating on Webb's mirror segments?