Gravitational lensing fills a deep image

The infrared observatory lifted off on an Ariane 5 rocket from French Guiana.

NASA, ESA and CSA collaborated on the telescope and its scientific instruments.

The launch sent Webb toward its distant observing location near the Sun–Earth L2 point.

After launch, the observatory still had to unfold, align and calibrate before routine science.

A composite image of galaxy cluster SMACS 0723 was shown publicly.

Webb’s first public deep field demonstrated the power of its near-infrared camera.

The image combined many exposures taken before its unveiling; the date marks public release.

The public release presented several targets after the previous evening’s single deep-field unveiling.

The collection included the Cosmic Cliffs in the Carina Nebula.

Webb’s release included infrared views of the Southern Ring Nebula.