Shielding the Stars: NASA's Roman Telescope's Sun Protection

Protecting the Telescope's Sensitive Instruments

Engineers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have attached two large sunshields to the telescope. These shields act as a giant sunblock, protecting the telescope's sensitive instruments from the sun's heat and light. This protection is vital for detecting faint signals from space.

Launch Plans and Budget Concerns

The telescope is set to launch by May 2027, possibly even by fall 2026. However, recent federal budget proposals threaten to cut NASA's funding. These cuts could delay or even cancel the mission, causing concern among scientists and engineers who have spent decades planning and investing in this project. The telescope aims to solve big cosmic mysteries, like dark energy and exoplanets.

Continued Work Despite Uncertainty

Despite the budget uncertainty, work on the telescope continues as planned. The newly installed panels are part of the Lower Instrument Sun Shade. They join other protective barriers, like the Solar Array Sun Shield and Deployable Aperture Cover, which keep the telescope's instruments cool and stable, allowing it to peer deep into the infrared universe.

Design and Functionality of the Sunshields

Each panel is about 7 by 7 feet and 3 inches thick. They are made of thin aluminum sheets with a honeycomb structure in the middle, making them lightweight yet strong. The panels can handle extreme temperatures, with the sun-facing side reaching up to 216°F (102°C) and the shaded side dropping to –211°F (–135°C). Special polymer blankets help regulate the temperature.

Rigorous Testing Ahead

The telescope will undergo rigorous testing, including a 70-day thermal vacuum test that simulates the harsh conditions of space. After testing, the sunshade will be removed briefly to allow engineers to join the telescope's inner and outer assemblies. Once reattached, the telescope will be nearly ready for launch.