This image compares the sizes of the primary mirrors of the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope. Credit: NASA
Ground teams have actually now started instructing the main mirror sections and secondary mirror to move from their stowed-for-launch configuration, off of snubbers that kept them tight and safe from rattling from vibration. These motions will take at least ten days, after which engineers can start the three-month process of lining up the segments to perform as a single mirror.
Webb has actually started the comprehensive procedure of fine-tuning its individual optics into one big, precise telescope.
Engineers first commanded actuators– 126 devices that will move and shape the main mirror sections, and six gadgets that will position the secondary mirror– to validate that all are working as expected after launch. The team also commanded actuators that guide Webbs great steering mirror to make small motions, validating they are working as anticipated. The fine steering mirror is critical to the procedure of image stabilization.
By NASA
January 12, 2022
