Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
James Webb Space Telescope Launch from French Guiana

The launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) in French Guiana was more than just a rocket launch—it was part of a larger scientific and educational initiative called La Guyane Vers Les Étoiles (French Guiana Towards the Stars). This project was a collaboration between the Paris Observatory, the European Space Agency, and local communities, aimed at inspiring the next generation through space science. The event included three parts: educational workshops for schoolchildren, teacher training, and public outreach. Students participated in interactive astronomy sessions led by global experts present for the launch, while teachers received training in the basics of astrophysics from researchers at the Paris-PSL Observatory. The outreach extended beyond the launch event, with ongoing educational support to Guyanese schools, fostering a year-long exploration of space science. The general public also had the chance to engage, with free astronomy workshops held in markets and public spaces, offering a chance for everyone to observe the Sun, planets, and stars. Additionally, experts shared the latest discoveries in astronomy through public conferences. Capturing the JWST launch within this broader context was a way to document not only the incredible technical achievement but also the effort to inspire future generations, particularly from underrepresented communities, to pursue careers in science. It highlighted the international cooperation behind the project and reinforced the importance of making space exploration accessible to all.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2021
Date Uploaded: 10.2024
Photo Location: Kourou, French Guiana
Camera: Canon EOS R5
Copyright: © Andrew Hara