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The Science Performance of JWST as Characterized in Commissioning.

Authors :
Rigby, Jane
Perrin, Marshall
McElwain, Michael
Kimble, Randy
Friedman, Scott
Lallo, Matt
Doyon, René
Feinberg, Lee
Ferruit, Pierre
Glasse, Alistair
Rieke, Marcia
Rieke, George
Wright, Gillian
Willott, Chris
Colon, Knicole
Milam, Stefanie
Neff, Susan
Stark, Christopher
Valenti, Jeff
Abell, Jim
Source :
Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. Apr2023, Vol. 135 Issue 1046, p1-31. 31p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

This paper characterizes the actual science performance of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), as determined from the six month commissioning period. We summarize the performance of the spacecraft, telescope, science instruments, and ground system, with an emphasis on differences from pre-launch expectations. Commissioning has made clear that JWST is fully capable of achieving the discoveries for which it was built. Moreover, almost across the board, the science performance of JWST is better than expected; in most cases, JWST will go deeper faster than expected. The telescope and instrument suite have demonstrated the sensitivity, stability, image quality, and spectral range that are necessary to transform our understanding of the cosmos through observations spanning from near-earth asteroids to the most distant galaxies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00046280
Volume :
135
Issue :
1046
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
163003114
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1088/1538-3873/acb293