Jonathan Arenberg

Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, USA

Presenter Bio

Jonathan Arenberg’s work experience includes optical, space and laser systems. He has had long tenures on astronomical programs such as the Chandra X-ray Observatory, initial development of the starshade the James Webb Space Telescope and concepts employing inflatables systems. In addition to his work on astronomical systems, he has contributed to major high-energy and tactical laser systems, laser component engineering, metrology, optical inspection and technology development projects. Dr. Arenberg holds a BS in physics and an MS and PhD in engineering, all from the University of California, Los Angeles. In 2020, Dr. Arenberg was awarded the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering’s Professional Achievement Award. He is the author of over 200 conference presentations, papers and book chapters and holds a fifteen European and U.S. Patents in a wide variety of areas of science, engineering and technology. He is the co-author of a recent book on systems engineering for astronomical systems from SPIE press. Dr. Arenberg is currently the Chief Mission Architect for Science and Robotic Exploration at Northrop Grumman and is an SPIE Fellow.

Presentation

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope; Its Mission, Design, Development and Progress to Science Operations

This talk introduces the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA’s next large astrophysics mission, launched Christmas Day, 2021. Webb’s science goals: detection of the universe’s first light, assembly of galaxies, birth of stars and observation of planets and exo-planets are introduced. We will explore how the design responds to mission requirements and produces the performance necessary to achieve the mission’s goals. Many of the unique elements of the architecture will be explored. The main engineering challenges for largest telescope ever built-in space are discussed and illustrated. Finally, the current status of the hardware and path to science operations will be explored.