The Mid-Infrared Instrument for the James Webb Space Telescope, I: Introduction. (4th January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rieke, G. H.; Wright, G. S.; Böker, T.; Bouwman, J.; Colina, L.; Glasse, Alistair; Gordon, K. D.; Greene, T. P.; Güdel, Manuel; Henning, Th.; Justtanont, K.; Lagage, P.-O.; Meixner, M. E.; Nørgaard-Nielsen, H.-U.; Ray, T. P.; Ressler, M. E.; van Dishoeck, E. F.; Waelkens, C.
• Is Part Of: Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. Volume 127:Number 953(2015)
• Page Start: 584
• Page End: 594
• Publication Date: 2016-01-04
• Subjects: Astronomy -- Periodicals; Astronomy; Periodicals; Periodicals; 520.5
• DOI: 10.1086/682252
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0004-6280

Abstract

Abstract: MIRI (the Mid-Infrared Instrument for the James Webb Space Telescope [ JWST ]) operates from 5 to 28.5 μm and combines over this range: (1) unprecedented sensitivity levels; (2) subarcsecond angular resolution; (3) freedom from atmospheric interference; (4) the inherent stability of observing in space; and (5) a suite of versatile capabilities including imaging, low- and medium-resolution spectroscopy (with an integral field unit), and coronagraphy. We illustrate the potential uses of this unique combination of capabilities with various science examples: (1) imaging exoplanets; (2) transit and eclipse spectroscopy of exoplanets; (3) probing the first stages of star and planet formation, including identifying bioactive molecules; (4) determining star formation rates and mass growth as galaxies are assembled; and (5) characterizing the youngest massive galaxies.