The Science of the James Webb Space Telescope

The Science of the James Webb Space Telescope
by Michael Rowan-Robinson

The story of the James Webb Space Telescope from its inception in 1996, through some serious delays and setbacks to its launch on Christmas Day 2021, its journey to its unusual orbit and its in-flight testing, and the triumphal first science pictures and results.

Webb’s main science goals are to study extra-terrestrial planets and their potential for life, and to find the very first stars and galaxies. But JWST has the potential to illuminate all aspects of our astronomical universe.

Michael brings with some inside knowledge of Webb’s early days and the key European contribution. Michael is Emeritus Professor of Astrophysics at Imperial College and still on the faculty as Distinguished Research Fellow. He was President of the Royal Astronomical Society from 2006-8 and was the first Hoyle medallist of the institute of Physics. He had a leading role in six infrared space missions (IRAS, ISO, Akari, SIRTF, Herschel, Planck). He has twice served on the Time Allocation Committee for the Hubble Space Telescope. He is the author of six popular books on astronomy.

Michael is also Chair of Trustees of the Southwold Arts Centre. After overheads, proceeds from ticket sales will go to supporting and promoting Southwold Science Week.

No science knowledge assumed. Aimed at interested adults and teenagers.