The Webb Space Telescope - Launching a Legacy

Explore the groundbreaking Webb Space Telescope in this comprehensive 1-hour 17-minute lecture by Dr. Alexandra Lockwood from the Space Telescope Science Institute. Delve into the astronomy motivations behind the mission, the cutting-edge technology powering the telescope, and the latest updates on launch preparations. Learn about the telescope's journey from its conception in the mid-1990s to its impending launch, and discover how its scientific capabilities will revolutionize our understanding of the Universe. Gain insights into the upcoming commissioning phase and the highly anticipated first images and spectra expected in the following summer. The lecture covers a wide range of topics, including the telescope's ability to observe supernovas, the outer solar system, early galaxies, exoplanets, and the early Universe. Understand the importance of infrared light in Webb's observations, the innovative sun shield and mirror design, and the international contributions to this groundbreaking project. Conclude with a Q&A session addressing various aspects of this remarkable space observatory.