'James Webb in danger': Can scientists save the $10 billion telescope?
Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Servicing Challenges
Future telescopes like James Webb and Gaia face hurdles in maintenance due to their remote location at the Lagrange Point L2, nearly a million miles from Earth.
Extended Lifespan
A proposed spider-like attachment could extend Gaia’s operational life without interrupting its mission, but time constraints make it unlikely to be implemented before decommissioning.
Damage Risks
James Webb’s segmented mirrors remain vulnerable to micrometeorite damage. Researchers are developing plans for replacing damaged mirrors to avoid wasting costly investments.
Proximity Safety
Repair spacecraft must avoid damaging delicate telescope structures during docking. New methods focus on slowing down without using thrusters directly near the telescopes.
Hidden Highways
Researchers have identified solar system “hidden highways,” enabling spacecraft to reach distant telescopes using low-cost, fuel-efficient trajectories.
Trajectory Breakthrough
A novel approach combining dynamical systems theory and optimal control theory allows faster computation of spacecraft paths to rendezvous with space telescopes.
Optimal Design
Advanced trajectory design ensures spacecraft can reach their target with minimal time and fuel, crucial for servicing telescopes like James Webb.
Future Vision
Plans for refueling and repairing space telescopes aim to make future missions sustainable, preventing the abandonment of billion-dollar equipment.
Practical Steps
While Gaia’s servicing plan is fully designed, James Webb’s repair efforts will need further engineering advancements to become a reality.