The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a large, space-based observatory that is set to be the successor to the Hubble Space Telescope. Named after James E. Webb, who served as the second administrator of NASA from 1961 to 1968, the JWST is designed to be a powerful tool for observing the universe in infrared wavelengths.

Here are some key features and facts about the James Webb Space Telescope:

1. Launch: The JWST is a collaborative project involving NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). It is planned to be launched atop an Ariane 5 rocket from French Guiana.
2. Objectives: The primary scientific goals of the JWST include studying the formation of the first galaxies, the evolution of galaxies, the formation of stars and planetary systems, and the atmospheres of exoplanets.
3. Infrared Observations: Unlike the Hubble Space Telescope, which primarily observes in visible and ultraviolet light, the JWST is optimized for infrared observations. This is crucial for studying objects that emit predominantly in the infrared, such as distant galaxies and newly forming stars.
4. Large Mirror: The JWST features a large, segmented primary mirror with a diameter of 6.5 meters (21 feet). This large mirror allows for improved sensitivity and resolution in the infrared.
5. Sunshield: To protect the telescope’s sensitive instruments from the Sun’s heat and light, the JWST is equipped with a five-layer sunshield that is roughly the size of a tennis court. The sunshield keeps the telescope and instruments at extremely low temperatures, necessary for infrared observations.
6. Orbit: The JWST is planned to be positioned at the second Lagrange point (L2), which is located approximately 1.5 million kilometers (about 930,000 miles) from Earth. This position provides a stable environment for observations and allows the telescope to stay cool with the sunshield.
7. International Collaboration: The JWST is a collaborative effort involving multiple countries and organizations. NASA leads the project, with significant contributions from ESA and CSA.
8. Launch Schedule: As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the JWST was scheduled for launch on December 18, 2021. Please note that launch schedules can change, so it’s advisable to check for the latest updates from official sources.

The James Webb Space Telescope is expected to revolutionize our understanding of the universe, providing unprecedented views of celestial objects in the infrared spectrum. It will complement and extend the discoveries made by earlier telescopes, including the Hubble Space Telescope.