Webb releases its first image collection

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.

The image shows arcs of distant galaxies magnified by foreground cluster mass.

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 collection included the Cosmic Cliffs in the Carina Nebula.

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

The first suite included spectroscopic results for an exoplanet, alongside images of galaxies and nebulae.

Ceremonies in South Africa and Australia marked the start of on-site construction.

SKAO planned complementary arrays in southern Africa and Western Australia.