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James Webb and Hubble telescope

Last updated 3 months ago
3 questions

Year 8 Science Research Task: Light and Lenses – Exploring the Hubble and James Webb Telescopes

Objective

To research and understand how the principles of light and lenses are used in telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and to compare their design and purpose.
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Year 8 Science Research Task: Light and Lenses – Exploring the Hubble and James Webb Telescopes

Objective

To research and understand how the principles of light and lenses are used in telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and to compare their design and purpose.

Task Instructions

Part 1: Research the Hubble Space Telescope

Answer the following questions:
  1. When was the Hubble Space Telescope launched, and why was it created?
  2. What type of lenses and mirrors does the Hubble use to capture light from distant objects?
  3. What kinds of objects or phenomena has Hubble helped scientists study?
  4. Find one famous image taken by Hubble (e.g., the Pillars of Creation) and explain why it is important.

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Part 2: Research the James Webb Space Telescope
Answer the following questions:
  1. When was the James Webb Space Telescope launched, and what is its mission?
  2. How is the James Webb different from the Hubble in terms of the type of light it observes (e.g., infrared vs. visible light)?
  3. What is special about the James Webb's mirror design, and how does it help scientists study the universe?
  4. Find an image or discovery from the James Webb telescope and explain what it tells us about the universe.

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Part 3: Compare Hubble and James Webb

Write a short comparison (3–5 sentences):
  • How are the Hubble and James Webb telescopes similar?
  • How are they different?
  • Why do scientists need both telescopes to study the universe?

Part 4: Create a Presentation or Poster

Using the information you’ve gathered:
  • Create a poster or slide presentation explaining how the Hubble and James Webb telescopes work, their major discoveries, and why they are important for studying light and the universe.
  • Include diagrams of how light is reflected or refracted in each telescope, and any images you found.