Unfolding the Universe with Roman Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope: Environmental Effects and Launch Considerations

This presentation will discuss improving imaging for the Roman Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope by preventing contamination and degradation. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a large, infrared space telescope operating at Lagrange point 2. JWST is a joint effort between NASA, ESA, and CSA and was launched from the Centre Spatial Guyanais (CSG) on an Ariane 5 rocket in December 2021.The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope (RST) is a large, wide-field space telescope operating at Lagrange point 2. RST is currently being integrated and tested with a planned launch in 2026 on a Falcon Heavy. Utilizing lessons learned from the successful James Webb Space Telescope, fairing depressurization and blanket venting design has been thoroughly investigated for RST. The design, testing and analysis required for this effort will be presented. A new venting approach has been implemented across RST as a result of this venting analysis.

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