Switzerland has contributed to the development of this instrument, which breaks all records. Interview with Willy Benz, professor at the Institute of Physics, Research in Astrophysics and Planetology at the University of Bern.
What makes this James Webb telescope so special?
Willy Benz It is unique for three main reasons. First, it is the largest space telescope ever put into orbit, with a mirror whose diameter reaches 6.5 meters. Until now, the record was held by Hubble (2.4 m). This will allow you to see smaller and more distant objects.
Second, this new telescope works in the infrared, a region of the spectrum that the eye cannot detect. When an object is very cold (eg a planet) or very far away, the light received is essentially in the infrared and cannot be detected in the visible. This new telescope will be able to do so, which opens up horizons in the exploration of the Universe.
Finally, this instrument is the result of a construction of extraordinary complexity. It was necessary to develop a “foldable” telescope, so that it might enter the rocket. Another necessity: protect it from the sun and keep it cool. Because if it heats up, its own radiation will blur the images. It’s a real technological feat!
What strikes you regarding the first observations of the telescope?
The quality of the pictures! It has nothing to do with the shots collected from Earth, because the atmosphere makes them more blurry. From space, everything is clearer.
What role did Switzerland play in the development of this telescope?
As a preamble, I would like to remind you that this is a collaboration between the American (NASA), Canadian (ASC) and European (ESA) space agencies. It is through the latter that Switzerland has contributed its stone to the building.
Among the four instruments that make up the telescope, our country has contributed to the development of two of them. The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Beyond Gravity (RUAG Space) and the company Sideral in Neuchâtel took part in the project.
