James Webb Space Telescope
(JWST)

Program Overview

• Mission: The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was designed to explore every phase of cosmic history, from the first glows after the Big Bang to the formation of solar systems
• Launch: Webb launched on December 25, 2021 aboard an Ariane 5 rocket in French Guiana
• Scientific Objectives: Unlike its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope, which observes in the visible and ultraviolet spectra, JWST operates primarily in the infrared range. This aims to provide even more information on fundamental questions about the universe, including the formation of galaxies, the evolution of stars, and the potential for life elsewhere

Experience from 2020-2021

Analysis

• Evaluated solar array hinge structural loads to address contingency scenarios, including a shimmy and twirl case, in the event of solar array deployment failure
• Conducted dynamic simulations on the JWST models, specifically the solar array and bus, utilizing Nastran and Femap
• Completed transient and frequency response analysis on Craig-Bampton reduced models

Testing

• Shadowed functional and environmental, including sine and random vibration, testing of the Deployable Radiator Shield Assembly (DRSA) sub-system to validate design

Reporting

• Developed detailed technical reports and delivered design review presentations to upper management and cross-functional teams

Achievements

• Received multiple Northrop Grumman BRAVO awards for my efforts in supporting multiple sub-system tests, and solar array deployment contingency analysis