NASA announced yesterday (8 September) that it plans to launch the James Webb Space Telescope (Webb) into orbit on 18 December 2021.

Webb is the next-generation space telescope. With a primary mirror about 6.5 metres wide, Webb can collect almost six times more light than the legendary Hubble Space Telescope which is 31 years old and counting.

Webb has been assembled and thoroughly tested. The telescope must first go through the Panama Canal to reach the launch site in Kourou, French Guiana. The major elements of the Ariane 5 rocket which will carry Webb to space arrived safely in Kourou from Europe early this month.

Webb is the largest space telescope ever built. With broad infrared coverage and vastly improved sensitivity, Webb are going to study every phase in the history of the Universe, from the first stars and galaxies to the formation of planetary systems capable of supporting life, to the Solar System's evolution.

Space Museum will stage a special exhibition on Webb from October. Stay tuned!