Cross-Section of Webb’s Five-Layer Sunshield
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NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI
Webb's sunshield plays a vital role in protecting the telescope from unwanted infrared radiation. The five-layer design insulates the telescope, keeping light from the Sun, Earth, and Moon from overheating the mirror and scientific instruments. None of the layers touch, preventing the conduction of heat from one layer to another, instead allowing the infrared radiation to flow outward.
Credits
Image
STScI