Space Explored

Upper stage of Ariane 5 rocket for James Webb Space Telescope launch arrives in French Guiana

By Derek Wise

September 7, 2021

The James Webb Space Telescope is a joint project between NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency to take over the role of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Image: NASA

The new telescope uses a larger array of mirrors and captures a longer wavelength of light.

This allows the telescope to capture light from more distant and fainter objects.

Image: NASA

Testing of the telescope was completed last month, and it will be prepared for transportation to the launch site this month.

Image: NASA

The James Webb Space Telescope will be launched from the Guiana Space Center, in French Guiana, on an Ariane 5 rocket.

Image: Arianespace

The upper stage and fairing for the rocket were loaded onto the boat MN Toucan in Germany back in August.

Image: Arianespace

MN Toucan arrived in French Guiana carrying the pieces of the Ariane 5 rocket last Friday.

Image: Arianespace

The Ariane 5 fairings and upper stage have since been offloaded in Kourou.

Image: ESA / Arianespace

The James Webb Space Telescope will be launched later this year.

Image: ESA