First light (astronomy)
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![First light image from the Kepler space telescope[1]](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e0/Kepler_mission_first_light.tiff/lossy-page1-400px-Kepler_mission_first_light.tiff.jpg)
In astronomy, first light is the first use of a telescope (or new instrument) to capture an astronomical image after construction. This typically follows initial optical tests to align components.[2]
Characteristics
[edit]First light images are usually of limited scientific value due to ongoing instrument calibration, but mark a significant milestone in a telescope's operational timeline.[3] Key aspects include:
- Technical verification: Tests basic functionality and alignment
- Ceremonial importance: Often celebrated after years of development
- Target selection: Typically features bright, well-known objects for initial testing[citation needed]
Notable examples
[edit]- Kepler space telescope (2009): First light image confirmed photometer functionality before exoplanet hunting.[1]
- James Webb Space Telescope (2022): Captured star 2MASS J17554042+6551277 to test mirror alignment.[4]
- Palomar Observatory (1949): First light revealed optical issues later corrected in the Hale Telescope.[5]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Atkinson, Nancy (16 April 2009). "Kepler's "First Light" Images". Universe Today. Retrieved 2012-10-13.
- ^ Schroeder, Daniel J. (2000). "10.3 Commissioning and First Light". Astronomical Optics. Academic Press. ISBN 978-0-12-629810-9.
- ^ Stepp, Larry M. (January 2003). "Giant Telescopes of the 21st Century". Scientific American. 288 (1): 38–45. doi:10.1038/scientificamerican0103-38. JSTOR 26060266.
- ^ "JWST's First Light Images". STScI. 2022-02-11.
- ^ Florence, Ronald (1994). The Perfect Machine: Building the Palomar Telescope. HarperCollins. ISBN 978-0-06-092670-0.