#EZScience: Taking Light Apart with the James Webb Space Telescope

Dr. Thomas Zee introduces the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. He discusses the Hubble backup mirror and the role of spectrographs in astronomy. The JWST's advanced features, such as its larger mirror and ability to observe colder light, allow it to explore the universe's early history and study black holes and planet atmospheres. The video highlights technological advancements from the JWST project and details its launch from French Guiana.

What is the primary focus of the James Webb Space Telescope as discussed in the introduction?

• To observe the early universe

• To study the surface of Mars

• To explore the depths of the ocean

• To replace the Hubble Space Telescope

What is a spectrograph used for in astronomy?

• To measure the distance between stars

• To split light and analyze its composition

• To detect gravitational waves

• To capture images of planets

How does the mirror size of the JWST compare to that of the Hubble?

• JWST's mirror is smaller

• JWST's mirror is larger

• Hubble's mirror is twice the size of JWST's

• Both mirrors are the same size

What unique capability does the JWST have due to its ability to observe colder light?

• It can detect radio waves

• It can look back in time to the early universe

• It can photograph black holes

• It can measure the temperature of stars

What is one of the key questions JWST aims to explore regarding galaxies?

• Do galaxies have water?

• Are galaxies made of dark matter?

• Do early galaxies have black holes?

• Do galaxies emit sound?

How will the JWST contribute to the search for extraterrestrial life?

• By sending probes to other planets

• By analyzing the composition of exoplanet atmospheres

• By capturing images of alien spacecraft

• By communicating with distant galaxies

What is one technological advancement that resulted from the development of the JWST?

• New propulsion systems for rockets

• Advanced materials for building spacecraft

• Improved solar panel efficiency

• Technology used by eye surgeons