NASA: Webb Telescope achieves new milestone after capturing sharp image of a star

NASA’s James Webb Telescope managed to capture a sharp image of 2MASS J17554042+6551277, proving that the observatory will be able to collect light from distant objects and transfer it to its instruments. Said telescope is still in the process of implementation and alignment, known as “fine calibration”, despite the important achievement obtained, according to the Andean Agency.

The purpose of Webb and NIRcam was to focus on the bright target star; however, the optics were able to capture the galaxies and stars. At that stage, each segment of the primary mirror was adjusted to make an image of the star itself using the instrument NIRCam and the last capture has a red filter to improve visual contrast.

The POT indicated that each optical parameter has exceeded expectations and no serious problems, measurable contamination or blockages were found in the optical path of Webb.

For Thomas Zurbuchenassociate administrator of the NASA Science Mission Directorateexpressed that “The Webb team set out to build the most powerful telescope ever launched into space” and for that reason “devised a bold optical design to meet demanding scientific goals”. The official also assured that said telescope “will give results”.

For its part, Ritva Keski-Kuhadeputy manager of the optical telescope element of webb at NASA Goddard Center argued that the team “fully aligned the telescope and it is focused on a star. Likewise, he specified that “the performance is exceeding the specifications”.

This team is well on its way to completing the optical telescope element alignment issues by early May, if not sooner. In addition, in a period of approximately two months they will be focused on the preparation of the scientific instruments.

In addition, the first full-resolution images and science data from webb They will be published in the summer.

Webb is the world’s premier space science observatory. Its purpose will be to solve the mysteries of our solar system, explore the mysterious structures and origins of our universe, among others.