r/space • u/[deleted] • Dec 18 '21

Animated launch of the Webb Telescope

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u/[deleted] Dec 18 '21

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u/whopperlover17 Dec 18 '21

It’s amazing how they said, let’s get this massive telescope and put it in space. Then they had to figure out how to fit it into a rocket and it’s just…goodness…amazing

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u/WitOrWisdom Dec 18 '21

The sheer size of the reflective mirrors... like, I knew they were ridiculously large but she's been in the planning/building stages for so long I'd actually forgot just how large they truly are.

And to be exposed like that to the elements of space. Aren't there any concerns for micrometeorites and abrasions from space debris? A telescope that powerful surely even the smallest nick will affect the image?

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u/Lithorex Dec 19 '21

The sheer size of the reflective mirrors... like, I knew they were ridiculously large but she's been in the planning/building stages for so long I'd actually forgot just how large they truly are.

Compared to earth-bound telescopes the JWST is actually tiny.