Since the dawn of astronomy in 1608, when Dutch eyeglass maker Hans Lippershey crafted the first telescope, we've been on a journey of discovery that has redefined our understanding of the universe. Lippershey's basic lens setup paved the way for incredibly advanced instruments capable of observing the beyond, but not all telescopes are created equal.

Today, the title of the most powerful telescope on the planet goes to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), launched in December 2021. This marvel of modern technology specializes in spotting infrared and near-infrared wavelengths—light that sneaks past our eyes but can be detected as warmth. Unlike its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope, which primarily focuses on visible and ultraviolet light, JWST dives deep into the unseen.

Why infrared? Many celestial bodies emit little to no visible light, making them nearly impossible to observe from Earth. Infrared light penetrates dust clouds that shroud these distant galactic wonders, inviting researchers to explore areas previously obscured from sight.

Even the recently activated Vera C. Rubin Telescope in Chile struggles to compete, grappling with the challenges of dust interference.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Universe