James Webb Space Telescope: Lifting the Veil on the Universe with Dr. Kathryn Flanagan

December 11, 2022    
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

The James Webb Space Telescope is the largest astrophysics mission in NASA’s history, launched on December 25, 2021. JWST was designed to see the first galaxies forming shortly after the Big Bang, and has been nicknamed the ‘First Light Machine.” But its infrared sensitivity allows it to peer into dusty environments, making it the perfect instrument to explore the regions where stars and planets form, and to trace how galaxies have evolved over time.

Last June, JWST released its first science images and stands poised to transform astronomy.  Dr. Kathryn Flanagan, astronomer emerita at the Space Telescope Science Institute, will introduce us to this marvelous facility and its first science discoveries.

Dr. Flanagan will share stunning images captured by the telescope and speak about how this mind-bending technological innovation recently made history by observing stars and galaxies from 13.5 billion years ago.

About Dr. Kathryn Flanagan

Dr. Kathryn Flanagan holds an astronomer emerita appointment at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), where she has served as JWST mission head, Deputy Director and Interim Director. The Institute is responsible for the science operations of the Hubble Space Telescope, as well as the mission and science operations of its successor, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

She has participated in NASA’s advisory structure, co-chairing strategic planning documents and serving on advisory committees. She has been active in astronomical community organizations, and has been honored by election as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. She has been active in education, beginning with service as a Peace Corps volunteer teaching math and physics in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and is a strong advocate for science outreach to the public and the “next generation.”

Light refreshments will be served following the presentation.

Recommended for adults and children aged 10 and older.

We encourage you to sign up soon to secure a spot because this event is expected to be well attended. Registrations will be checked at the door.

Sponsored by ACE, the Adult Community Engagement Group.