The James Webb Space Telescope continues to stay busy with constant science operations and general tasks. Unfortunately, as we approach a year since the next generation space telescope was launched, Webb has run into another slight problem. So far since the telescope was launched the only complication was a slight micrometeoroid impact that was not significant.
Just earlier today NASA released information on a problem with one of MIRI’s modes. This report included a very brief overview of the problem the agency was facing and part of their plan going forward. However, its not all bad news as they also released new information and images on our planetary neighbor, Mars. Specifically, taken on September 5th, Webb captured its first images and spectra of the Martian planet. The agency highlighted this new data provides a unique perspective with its infrared sensitivity on our neighboring planet, complementing data being collected by orbiters, rovers, and other telescopes.
One of the reasons these images are so special is not only Webb’s infrared camera properties but also the location of the telescope in relation to Mars. All of these features combined provided various results that give a completely unique perspective on the planet and its future. Here I will go more in-depth into the recent Webb images, why they are so important, what to expect in the coming months, and more.
Full article here – https://thespacebucket.com/what-webbs-new-images-of-mars-reveals-about-the-planet/
For more space-related content check out – https://thespacebucket.com/
Credit:
ESA – https://www.youtube.com/c/EuropeanSpaceAgency
NASA – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLA_DiR1FfKNvjuUpBHmylQ
Chapters:
0:00 – Intro
1:12 – MIRI Problem
2:51 – New Mars Image
6:09 – NIRSpec Findings
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Thanks Bucket!
Great update! Thanks for sharing.
I think the telescope is too complicated. There should be only three components that processes the spectrum waves: the collection mirrors, spectrum sensors, and data transmitter. All the processing should be completed on Earth.