Hubble Space Telescope vs. James Webb Space Telescope

Attribute	Hubble Space Telescope	James Webb Space Telescope
Launch Date	April 24, 1990	October 31, 2021 (planned)
Primary Mission	Observing in visible, ultraviolet, and near-infrared wavelengths	Observing in infrared wavelengths
Primary Mirror Size	2.4 meters	6.5 meters
Orbit	Low Earth Orbit	Lagrange Point 2 (L2)
Cost	$2.5 billion	Over $10 billion (estimated)

Introduction

Space telescopes have revolutionized our understanding of the universe by providing us with stunning images and valuable data about distant galaxies, stars, and planets. Two of the most famous space telescopes are the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope. While both serve the same purpose of observing the cosmos, they have distinct attributes that set them apart.

Size and Weight

The Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, has a size of approximately 43.5 feet long and weighs about 24,500 pounds. In comparison, the James Webb Space Telescope, scheduled for launch in 2021, is much larger, with a size of about 69.5 feet long and a weight of around 14,300 pounds. The larger size and weight of the James Webb Space Telescope allow it to carry more advanced instruments and technology for observing the universe.

Observational Capabilities

One of the key differences between the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope is their observational capabilities. The Hubble primarily observes in the visible, ultraviolet, and near-infrared wavelengths, while the James Webb is designed to observe in the mid-infrared range. This allows the James Webb to study the early universe, the formation of galaxies, and the birth of stars in ways that the Hubble cannot.

Location and Orbit

The Hubble Space Telescope orbits the Earth at an altitude of about 340 miles, allowing it to capture clear images of the cosmos without interference from the Earth's atmosphere. In contrast, the James Webb Space Telescope will be positioned at the second Lagrange point (L2), approximately 1 million miles from Earth. This location provides a stable environment for observations and reduces interference from the Earth and the Sun.

Instrumentation

Both the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope are equipped with advanced instruments for observing the universe. The Hubble features instruments such as the Wide Field Camera 3, the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, and the Advanced Camera for Surveys. On the other hand, the James Webb will have instruments like the Near Infrared Camera, the Near Infrared Spectrograph, and the Mid-Infrared Instrument, which are specifically designed for its mid-infrared observations.

Launch and Deployment

The Hubble Space Telescope was launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1990 and deployed into orbit. It has since been serviced and upgraded several times by astronauts on space shuttle missions. In comparison, the James Webb Space Telescope will be launched aboard an Ariane 5 rocket and deployed into its orbit around L2. Due to its location, the James Webb will not be serviceable by astronauts, making its design and construction crucial for its success.

Cost and Funding

The Hubble Space Telescope has been a flagship mission for NASA and has received significant funding over the years for its operations and maintenance. The total cost of the Hubble mission, including construction, launch, and operations, is estimated to be over $10 billion. On the other hand, the James Webb Space Telescope has faced budget overruns and delays, with its total cost exceeding $10 billion as well. The funding for the James Webb has come from NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope are two remarkable instruments that have expanded our knowledge of the universe. While the Hubble has been instrumental in capturing breathtaking images and conducting groundbreaking research, the James Webb promises to take us even further by observing the early universe and unlocking new mysteries of space. Both telescopes have their unique attributes and capabilities, making them invaluable tools for astronomers and scientists around the world.