Dismantling the full-scale model of the JWST space telescope mirror, produced by the CEA in 2009 to mark the International Year of Astronomy.
Commissioned from Atelier Alain Pras, this faithful representation reproduces the primary and secondary mirrors of the JWST, as well as the instrument column at the rear. At 1:1 scale, the model reflects the gigantic dimensions of this telescope, whose primary mirror measures 25 m².
The JWST (James Webb Space Telescope) was developed by NASA, with the participation of the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency. The CEA played a major role in the instrument’s design, notably by supplying the Mirim imager.
After several years at the CEA in Saclay, the model was transferred to the Cité de l’Espace in Toulouse. There, it will be enhanced before being put on display for visitors to enjoy!
The video is also available on the Vimeo platform.
Départ de la maquette JWST from ExplorNova on Vimeo.
Video credits: Francis Rhodes / CEA