The Webb telescope is undergoing a meticulous process of calibration, starting with the testing of its actuators which control the movements of the primary and secondary mirrors.
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has begun the detailed process of fine-tuning its individual optics into one huge, precise telescope.
Engineers first commanded actuators – 126 devices that will move and shape the primary mirror segments, and six devices that will position the secondary mirror – to verify that all are working as expected after launch. The team also commanded actuators that guide Webb’s fine steering mirror to make minor movements, confirming they are working as expected. The fine steering mirror is critical to the process of image stabilization.
Ground teams have now begun instructing the primary mirror segments and secondary mirror to move from their stowed-for-launch configuration, off of snubbers that kept them snug and safe from rattling from vibration. These movements will take at least ten days, after which engineers can begin the three-month process of aligning the segments to perform as a single mirror.
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