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Waiting to Unfold

JWST unfolded before being loaded on the rocket
This image shows the James Webb Space Telescope atop its launch vehicle, but before it was encapsulated in the rocket fairing.

This image shows the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) atop its launch vehicle, but before it was encapsulated in the rocket fairing. The telescope is encased in protective clean tent.

On Saturday, Jan. 8, the agency will provide live coverage the James Webb Space Telescope’s major spacecraft deployments.

Beginning no earlier than 9 a.m. EST, NASA will air live coverage of the final hours of Webb’s major deployments. After the live broadcast concludes, at approximately 1:30 p.m., NASA will hold a media briefing. Both the broadcast and media briefing will air live on NASA TV, the NASA app, and the agency’s website.

As the final step in the observatory’s major deployments, the Webb team plans to unfold the second of two primary mirror wings. When this step is complete, Webb will have finished its unprecedented process of unfolding in space to prepare for science operations.

artists concept.

This artist’s concept shows JWST fully unfolded in space.

Image Credit: NASA/Chris Gunn