James Webb Space Telescope Tests Alarm NASA; Anomalous Readings Observed On JWST
Anomalous readings have been detected on a next-generation telescope that would take the role of the Hubble space telescope as mankind's main eye to the universe. These data were observed during vibration tests at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The James Webb Telescope (JWST or Webb) is larger than the Hubble and will be deployed in October 2018.
NASA worked with the European and Space Agency, the University of Arizona, and the Canadian Space Agency for the construction and design of the JWST. The Webb was conceptualized in the mid-1990s when Daniel Goldin, who was NASA's agency chief then, pushed for the construction of a follow-on telescope that is cheaper and larger.
JWST's main role is to be an infrared observatory. Its main goal is to offer a high-definition view of the mid-infrared universe. Its potential as humans' another eye to the universe promises giant leaps for interplanetary scientist and physicists.
The telescope is equipped to probe deeper into the universe and scour for the first galaxies formed after the Big Bang. The JWST can assist scientist to gain observations that will increase their understanding of the origins of the universe. It will serve as a tool for their continued search for signs of life on faraway exoplanets. NASA hopes to unravel stars that are thousands of light years away for Hubble to probe.
The Webb needs to undergo a series of rigorous tests before its launch. These tests include a cryogenic testing for the telescope's mirror and instruments and a simulation of the noise to be experienced by the telescope during the launch.
Scientists are hoping for a successful deployment that will allow them to pull back the curtains of the universe. The JWST's deployment will be conducted in French Guiana where it will be launched on top of the European Ariane 5 rocket. NASA spent $10 billion for this project. The JWST will be 930,000 miles from Earth, making it impossible for astronauts to reach the Webb in case that some technical problems occur.
The video below presents a preview of the JWST.
