The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the largest astrophysics mission in NASA's history, launched on December 25, 2021. JWST was designed to see the first galaxies forming shortly after the Big Bang, and has been nicknamed the "First Light Machine." But its infrared sensitivity allows it to peer into dusty environments, making it the perfect instrument to explore the regions where stars and planets form, and to trace how galaxies have evolved over time. Last June, JWST released its first science images and stands poised to transform astronomy. Dr. Kathryn Flanagan will introduce us to this marvelous facility and its first science discoveries. Last year, she discussed the observatory design and the kind of science the James Webb Space Telescope mission might return. This talk will give us a first glimpse of how the JWST is performing and whether it will meet its lofty goals.

Dr. Kathryn Flanagan holds an astronomer emerita appointment at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), where she has served as JWST mission head, Deputy Director and Interim Director. The Institute is responsible for the science operations of the Hubble Space Telescope, as well as the mission and science operations of its successor, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

This is a HYBRID program. To attend via Zoom, please register to receive the Zoom link. In-person attendance is on a first come basis.

This program is made possible by the generous donors to the Cary Library Foundation.