All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Consider the following statements about James Webb Space Telescope (JWST):

1. It is the largest observatory ever launched into space.

2. It has been developed by NASA in partnership with the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

This question was previously asked in
CDS I 2022 English Previous Year Paper (10-April-2022)
The correct answer is

Both 1 and 2

Understanding the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Statements

The question asks us to evaluate two statements concerning the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), one of the most advanced space observatories ever built. Let's carefully examine each statement to determine its correctness.

Analyzing Statement 1: JWST's Size

Statement 1 says, "It is the largest observatory ever launched into space."

The James Webb Space Telescope is renowned for its massive primary mirror, which is made up of 18 hexagonal segments. When fully unfolded, this mirror has a diameter of 6.5 meters. This is significantly larger than the Hubble Space Telescope's primary mirror, which is 2.4 meters in diameter.

Considering its size and complexity, especially its large mirror enabling it to collect more light, the JWST is indeed considered the largest and most powerful space telescope launched to date. Therefore, this statement is correct.

Analyzing Statement 2: JWST's Development Partners

Statement 2 says, "It has been developed by NASA in partnership with the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency."

Space missions of this scale and complexity often involve international collaboration. The James Webb Space Telescope is a prime example of such a partnership. NASA led the development of JWST, but the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) made significant contributions. ESA provided the NIRSpec instrument, the MIRI instrument's optical bench assembly, and the Ariane 5 launch vehicle. CSA provided the Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS) and the Near-Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrograph (NIRISS).

This statement accurately lists the key international partners involved in the development and operation of the JWST. Therefore, this statement is also correct.

Conclusion on JWST Statements

Based on the analysis of both statements:

  • Statement 1, claiming JWST is the largest observatory launched into space, is correct due to its unprecedented size, particularly its large primary mirror.
  • Statement 2, identifying NASA, ESA, and CSA as development partners, is correct as these agencies were the primary collaborators on the project.

Since both statements are correct, the option indicating "Both 1 and 2" is the correct answer.

Revision Table: Key JWST Facts

Feature Description
Primary Agency NASA
International Partners European Space Agency (ESA), Canadian Space Agency (CSA)
Mirror Diameter 6.5 meters
Observing Wavelengths Primarily infrared, with some visible light capability
Orbit Location Lagrange Point 2 (L2)
Mission Study planet formation, star formation, early galaxies, exoplanets

Additional Information: Exploring the James Webb Space Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is often referred to as the successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, though it observes the universe primarily in infrared light, allowing it to see through dust clouds and observe very distant, faint objects whose light has been stretched into infrared wavelengths by the expansion of the universe. Its location at the second Lagrange Point (L2), about 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, provides a stable thermal environment and a clear view of the sky.

The scientific goals of JWST include searching for the first galaxies or luminous objects that formed after the Big Bang, determining how galaxies evolved from their formation to the present day, observing the formation of stars and planetary systems, and measuring the physical and chemical properties of planetary systems, including our own, and investigating the potential for life in those systems.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. Which one of the following planets was explored by Cassini Mission launched by NASA, which ended in September 2017?

  2. Which one of the following statements is not correct?

  3. Which one of the following statements about reusable space vehicle of ISRO is not correct?

  4. Which of the following statements about India’s scientific and research mission in Antarctica is/are correct?

    1. The first scientific base station in Antarctica was Dakshin Gangotri.

    2. Dakshin Gangotri is now being used as a supply base and transit camp.

    3. The Maitri station is manned throughout the year for scientific activities.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:
  5. Which one of the following statements is true for James Webb Space Telescope launched in December 2021?

  6. Photo 51 refers to an image of

  7. Which of the following statements about Bit coin is/are correct?

    1. It is a decentralized virtual currency.

    2. It is generated through complex computer software systems.

    3. The Reserve Bank of India recognized it as a legal tender in January 2016.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:
  8. Which one of the following is the first commercial space station?

  9. To study which one of the following was a spacecraft launched that would be farthest from the Sun and would run exclusively on solar power?

  10. India's maiden human space mission will be launched in 2023. What is its name?


Important Questions from Science and Technology

  1. Which of the following is NOT a global positioning system ?

  2. What technology is bitcoin built on?

  3. Which of the following two statements is / are correct?

    a. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) generates thin section images of any part of the human body.

    b. CT Scan is superior to X-rays and MRI.

  4. The term ‘ACE2’ is talked about in the context of

  5. With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements :

    1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.

    2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Need Expert Advice?
Test Series
CDS img
Defence
UPSC CDS 2026 Mock Test Series
536 Tests 4 Tests Free
1633 Attempts
4.3(174)
English, Hindi
More Questions from CDS

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App