Take photos from the L2 Lagrange point

1 Building up energy

After around 30 days of travel, the JWST will need to build up enough energy to break into the gravitational pocket created between Earth and the Sun. To do this it will perform a small loop – this will create a slingshot that will launch the rocket into orbit at the L2 point.

2 Staying in place

Now that it’s breached the gravitational pocket of the L2 point, the JWST has to keep itself in place so that it can commence searching for the first light of the universe.

3 Maintaining direction

The back of the craft must always be facing the Sun to protect the sensitive instruments and mirrors at the front. This positioning is also vital for keeping the JWST functioning. All that sunlight isn’t going to waste, as the solar panel at the rear converts it into electrical power.

4 Never losing track

The JWST won’t enter the shadow of Earth and lose sight of its targets. Instead the telescope will perform its halo orbit every six months. It can capture images and data without being hindered by the position of Earth and the Moon.