This engineering test image taken by Canada’s Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS) on Webb, in 72 exposures over 32 hours in May 2022, provides a unique preview of the space observatory’s power. While Webb’s four science instruments will eventually reveal the telescope’s new view of the universe, the FGS is the only component that will be used in every Webb observation during the life of the mission. (Rights: Canadian Space Agency, NASA, FGS team) (CNW Group/Canadian Space Agency) FGS has always been capable of capturing images, but its primary purpose is to enable precise scientific measurements and imaging with precision pointing. When it captures images, the images are usually not preserved: Given the limited communication bandwidth between L2 and Earth, Webb only sends data from up to two science instruments at a time. However, during a week-long stability test in May, the team thought it could keep the images being captured because there was data transfer bandwidth available. See full image and caption. (Credits: NASA, CSA and FGS team) Read more on the James Webb Space Telescope news page. Media interested in speaking with a CSA expert or seeking more information about Canada’s contribution to the Webb Telescope can contact the CSA Media Relations Office. Useful links: Website: us on social media SOURCE Canadian Space Agency Cision View original content for downloading media:
