How to Use JWST: Time on the James Webb Space Telescope and Getting Started with JWST Data

In this PBS Space Time episode, the James Webb Space Telescope is explored not just for what it discovers but for how scientists actually use it. The video covers how to apply for time on JWST, what the proposal process looks like, how data are stored, and how researchers and enthusiasts can begin working with JWST data themselves. It also highlights legacy programs and famous deep fields that JWST is pursuing, and points to practical channels for getting started using JWST imagery and spectra.

• Any researcher or interested individual can apply for JWST time via the general observer program by submitting a detailed proposal.
• The process includes Phase 1 and Phase 2 proposals with precise sky coordinates, instrument choices, and observing settings.
• Data are held under a 12 month proprietary period before becoming public through the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST); legacy programs have no proprietary period.
• Deep-field JWST observations like SMACS 0723 illustrate the telescope’s infrared power and its ability to peer into the early universe, with opportunities to work with public data and tutorials to create your own images.

Overview of JWST and its unique capabilities

The James Webb Space Telescope is an infrared observatory positioned at Earth's second Lagrange point (L2). Its infrared sensitivity makes it especially suited to seeing through dust, capturing cool, faint objects, and observing the distant, early universe. JWST carries four instruments that enable high‑resolution imaging and spectroscopy across visible red light to mid infrared wavelengths, with capabilities like multi-object spectroscopy and coronagraphy to block starlight and reveal exoplanets. The mission design emphasizes infrared science with a foldable 8‑meter class mirror that provides six times the collecting area of Hubble, enabling a new era of galaxy formation, exoplanet atmospheres, and cosmic history.

From Hubble to Webb: Design choices and history

The JWST project grew from plans for a successor to Hubble, focusing on infrared science and a larger aperture to maximize sensitivity. Dealing with technological, political, and budgetary challenges, the mission evolved over decades before launch. The telescope now sits at an optimal L2 position with a fully deployed mirror and infrared instruments humming. The name honors NASA administrator James Webb, a decision that invites independent inquiry into the name's background. JWST’s deployment, alignment, and commissioning were celebrated as a major milestone in space astronomy.

How astronomers use JWST

JWST time is allocated primarily through the general observer or GO program, which invites researchers and even non‑professionals to submit proposals detailing science goals, targets, and observing strategies. Accepted programs are queued and executed over the subsequent year, after which data are delivered to the investigator. A typical workflow includes a 12‑month grace period during which only the PI team has access to the data, followed by public release. The archive for JWST data is the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST), which also houses data from Hubble, Gaia, and other missions. Legacy programs are designed to maximize science return and do not have proprietary periods, ensuring broad community access and long‑term value.

Data access and legacy programs

JWST science spans early galaxies, galaxy evolution, dust‑enshrouded star formation, and exoplanet atmospheres. Deep field observations like the SMACS 0723 cluster demonstrate JWST’s ability to reveal faint, distant galaxies and gravitationally lensed arcs that illuminate the early universe. Large legacy surveys are planned to cover key astronomical questions and maximize public data usefulness, with data available to anyone after the proprietary period ends.

Practical steps to start using JWST data

For those curious about working with JWST imagery, there are practical resources and tutorials that show how to download and combine images from different infrared filters to craft color representations. The video encourages viewers to share their own processed JWST data in future episodes, highlighting a community around JWST data analysis and image processing.

What to expect next

With JWST delivering high‑quality images and spectra, the astronomical community anticipates a steady stream of groundbreaking results over the coming years. The mission will continue to map galaxy evolution, probe the earliest epochs of the universe, and characterize exoplanet atmospheres, all while providing public data through a widely accessible archive and encouraging citizen science and education through tutorials and community contributions.