Editor’s note: Due to a communication issue between the observatory and the launch vehicle system, the James Webb Telescope launch date is now targeted for no earlier than Friday, Dec. 24. More information will be provided soon. This feature was updated on Dec. 21, 2021 to include information about the virtual launch packet.
NASA is inviting the public to take part in virtual activities and events ahead of the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope. Webb will be the world’s largest and most powerful space science observatory. It will build upon the discoveries of other missions to answer fundamental questions about the universe and its origins. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Wednesday, Dec. 22, at 7:20 a.m. EST on an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from French Guiana.
Members of the public may register to attend the launch virtually or RSVP to the Virtual NASA Social event on Facebook. NASA’s virtual guest program for this launch includes curated launch resources, a behind-the-scenes look at the mission, and a virtual guest passport stamp following a successful launch. NASA and contractor employees can register for a special ticket type and receive content designed to honor their contributions.
Live countdown commentary and launch broadcast will begin at 5:50 a.m. EST and air on NASA Television and the agency’s website, as well as YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitch, Daily Motion, Theta.TV and NASA’s App.
The James Webb Space Telescope’s revolutionary technology will study every phase of cosmic history – from within our solar system to the most distant observable galaxies in the early universe. Webb’s infrared telescope will explore a wide range of science questions to help us understand the origins of the universe and our place in it.
Members of the public also can share in the journey through a variety of activities, including:
Webb Virtual Platform
The public can learn from experts about Webb, the next great space science observatory. Participants may listen to pre-recorded talks about the critical three-week period after launch, when engineers will command the observatory to unfold for use in space; listen to a Webb audiobook; learn how Webb will extend the scientific discoveries of other NASA missions, starting with the release of stunning images six months after launch; and more. Access the content here: https://go.nasa.gov/WebbSTEAMDay
#UnfoldTheUniverse Art Challenge
Get inspired and show us what you think Webb will discover, using any form of art. Share a photo or video of you with your art and tag us with #UnfoldTheUniverse. You may be featured on our website, social media channels, or historic launch broadcast! Learn more here: https://go.nasa.gov/unfoldtheuniverse
Webb’s Deployments
When it comes to the Webb Space Telescope, launch is only the beginning.
In the 29 days after liftoff, hundreds of parts must work correctly, in sequence, to ensure that Webb can unfold into its final form. And as all of this takes place, Webb will fly through the expanse of space to a destination nearly one million miles away. Explore all the parts involved in deployment to learn more about Webb’s operational configuration. Explore more: https://jwst.nasa.gov/content/webbLaunch/deploymentExplorer.html
Virtual Launch Packet & Passport
Click through the virtual launch packet to learn more about the mission. Print, fold, and get ready to fill your recently updated virtual passport. Stamps will be emailed following launches to those who register via email through Eventbrite.
Watch and Engage on Social Media
Stay connected with the mission on social media and let people know you’re following the launch and mission on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram with #UnfoldTheUniverse. Follow and tag these accounts:
Webb is an international partnership between NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and the Canadian Space Agency. Thousands of engineers and scientists worked to make Webb a reality along with over 300 universities, organizations, and companies from 29 U.S. states and 14 countries.
Additional information about the Webb mission can be found on the mission’s websites: www.nasa.gov/webb and www.webb.nasa.gov