James Webb Space Telescope Begins Million-Mile Journey

Rhea-AI Summary

The James Webb Space Telescope, developed by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC), successfully launched from French Guiana aboard an Ariane 5 rocket on December 25, 2021. This launch marks the beginning of a complex two-week deployment process aimed at preparing the telescope for its mission at Lagrange Point 2 (L2). The telescope's innovative technology will enable it to observe light from the universe's earliest stars, potentially dating back 13.5 billion years. Northrop Grumman emphasizes this project as a significant advancement in space science and exploration.

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• Successful launch of the James Webb Space Telescope enhances Northrop Grumman's reputation in aerospace technology.
• Innovative technology developed for the telescope may lead to significant scientific discoveries.

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• None.

KOUROU, French Guiana, Dec. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- James Webb Space Telescope, built in partnership with Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), successfully launched today from the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana aboard an Ariane 5 rocket.

Approximately 30 minutes after launch, Webb detached from the Ariane 5 rocket, marking the beginning of a million-mile journey and the start of a two-week complex deployment process to unfold the spacecraft in preparation for arrival at Lagrange Point 2 (L2).

“Since the dawn of the space age, NASA, international partner agencies and industry partners, together with Northrop Grumman, have been defining what is possible in space science and exploration,” said Kathy Warden, chairman, chief executive officer and president, Northrop Grumman. “Over the next few weeks, the James Webb Space Telescope will transform into an awe-inspiring scientific tool that will usher in a new era in human discovery.”

During the journey to L2, Webb will convert from its stowed position in which it left Earth to the configuration that will allow it to see light coming from the earliest stars to shine in the Universe. Part of this journey is to unfold the tennis court-sized, five-layer sunshield around the sensitive mirrors that allow Webb to take pictures and collect data that will come back to Earth for scientific review. Once operational, Webb will explore farther than ever before into the cosmos, looking back 13.5 billion years.

To deliver this kind of scientific data, Webb incorporates innovative design, advanced technology, and groundbreaking engineering. Ten technological inventions were created to build the revolutionary telescope so that it can detect light from the first stars and galaxies. Some of these innovations include optics, detectors and thermal control systems.

Additional James Webb Space Telescope Background for Reporters and Editors: Webb-Datasheet.pdf (northropgrumman.com)

Northrop Grumman is a technology company, focused on global security and human discovery. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with capabilities they need to connect, advance, and protect the U.S. and its allies. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our 90,000 employees define possible every day.

Contacts:			Omar Torres
			+1 424-237-4704 (mobile)
			omar.torres@ngc.com
			Daniel Hazard
			+1 858-295-5263 (mobile)
			daniel.hazard@ngc.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e805e72f-af7f-41e3-9ac1-7acb052eb293

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3c7919dd-3c21-4378-b498-77dcffce628e

FAQ

What is the significance of the James Webb Space Telescope launch on December 25, 2021?

The launch marks the beginning of a new era in space exploration, as the telescope aims to observe the earliest stars in the universe.

How does the James Webb Space Telescope impact Northrop Grumman's stock (NOC)?

The successful launch enhances Northrop Grumman's reputation and could positively influence investor sentiment.

What innovations are included in the James Webb Space Telescope?

The telescope incorporates ten technological inventions crucial for its ability to detect light from the first stars and galaxies.

When will the James Webb Space Telescope reach Lagrange Point 2?

The telescope will take approximately two weeks to unfold and reach Lagrange Point 2 after its launch.