The James Webb Space Telescope has multiple science instruments, but only one of them, the Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), sees light in the mid-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. MIRI’s design, which allows it to both take both images and obtain the scientific data known as spectra, makes it the equivalent of two instruments in one. These dual techniques allow the Webb telescope to study distant objects in greater detail than ever before.
“Behind the Webb” is a recurring video series from HubbleSite, home of the Hubble Space Telescope and the upcoming Webb Space Telescope. Join host Mary Estacion as she goes behind the scenes to watch the construction and testing of the parts that will make Webb the world’s most powerful infrared telescope.
You can find the entire “Behind the Webb” archive here:
http://webbtelescope.org/webb_telescope/behind_the_webb/archive
Learn more about Webb”s technology here: http://webbtelescope.org/webb_telescope/technology_at_the_extremes/
Learn about MIRI here: http://webbtelescope.org/webb_telescope/technology_at_the_extremes/webb_instruments.php#miri