Astronomy expert with James Webb update – new video uploaded to AP Video Hub

In the video, he gives an update on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and what he and his team hope to learn about supernovae when it finishes deployment. All videos in the Campus Insights series are free for download and use by all AP members and can be found at apvideohub.ap.org or by doing a general search on the Associated Press site. AP members may use the video or to pull quotes for print article or for broadcast or podcast. 

STORYLINE:

Milisavljevic is a part of a team that will use the JWST to study Cassiopeia A, a supernova remnant. He says that thanks to this telescope, his team will be able to study what he calls “spectral fingerprints,” allowing them to learn about the origins of this supernova. Milisavljevic says that once the JWST reaches its final destination in orbit beyond the moon, NASA will begin calibrating the mirrors to put the telescope in focus. He hopes to see the first images released by April. Milisavljevic says that thanks to a smooth launch, propellant used to keep the observatory in place will extend the mission to a predicted length of 15 years. He also notes that NASA is discussing a potential unmanned refueling mission to the JWST to increase operational length.