NASA's James Webb Space Telescope: launch date and time, where and how to watch
One of NASA's most delayed project has finally got the green light this year, and will be launching very soon.
Originally supposed to be launched back in the early 2000s, the James Webb Space Telescope has had its launch delayed again, with the third mission date of December 24, Christmas Eve being postponed. It has already suffered two delays this month. It will now be launched after Christmas
The mission will be the successor to the famous Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990. Hubble has since ventured outside the galaxy on its travels. James Webb will seek to build upon the success of its predecessor, but it will be using different technology to accomplish its task. By scanning infrared radiation, meaning it can see beyond visual, or infra-red, radiation.
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope is about 100 times more sensitive than its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope. It will gather information on the universe’s earliest stages and whether planets beyond our solar system may be suitable for life https://t.co/7iRUkGEUuk pic.twitter.com/DFTohvRx5n
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 20, 2021
In short, it can see further than Hubble. Both will remain in service alongside one-another.
How can the mission be viewed?
Live launch coverage will run on NASA Television, NASA's YouTube, the NASA app and agency social media channels starting at 07:20 a.m. EST and 04:20 a.m. PT on December 25.
Coming up for the @NASAWebb telescope (UTC-5):
— NASA (@NASA) December 18, 2021
✨ Dec. 21 at 2pm ET: Pre-launch briefing
✨ Dec. 24 at 6am ET: Live launch broadcast
✨ Dec. 24 at 6:30am ET: @NASA_Es launch broadcast
We're ready to #UnfoldTheUniverse! Get details on how you can watch: https://t.co/S1DWqchN0l pic.twitter.com/xhn6ZcrWS5
It will take off on an Arianespace Ariane 5 rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.