NASA publishes more images from the James Webb Telescope

Among other things, the telescope was able to detect visible signs of water on a gas planet outside our solar system. NASA has now published more photos.

After its first particularly deep and detailed look at space, NASA has provided more images from the James Webb Telescope, which was launched about six months ago. “Every image is a new discovery, and every image gives humanity a glimpse into the universe never seen before,” he said. NASA— CEO Bill Nelson at the photo presentation event on Tuesday.

The images provide different perspectives and data. Among other things, the telescope found clear signs of water on the gas planet “Wasp-96 b”, located outside our solar system. NASA said there are indications of clouds and fog in the atmosphere. This observation is the most accurate of its kind to date and demonstrates the telescope’s unprecedented ability to study the atmosphere hundreds of light years away.

The release of the images marks the official start of scientific work on the largest and most powerful telescope ever launched. The ESA chief said the telescope is a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” that will “change our understanding of the universe”.ESA), Josef Schbacher. “In addition to science, it is also a symbol of international cooperation.”

view in space

First image – “The deepest and most accurate infrared view of the universe ever recorded” – NASA had already presented Tuesday evening with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Very distant galaxies can be seen on it. Biden spoke of a “historic day,” Harris spoke of an “exciting new chapter in the exploration of the universe.” Biden and Harris were “excited like kids” and asked “a million questions.”

James Webb was launched on December 25 aboard the Ariane launch vehicle from the European Space Station at Kourou, French Guiana. Scientists hope that the images taken by the telescope will provide an insight into the time after the Big Bang about 13.8 billion years ago. James Webb was developed for about 30 years and cost about ten billion dollars (about 8.8 billion euros). It follows the Hubble telescope, which has been in use for more than 30 years.

(APA)