NASA completes spacecraft for Roman Space Telescope launch

NASA has successfully completed the construction of the spacecraft bus designed to deploy the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope into orbit. This achievement comes after extensive work on the installation of the telescope's scientific instruments. The spacecraft bus serves a critical role, akin to an RV, as it provides the necessary functions to transport the telescope to its designated location in space. It is equipped with solar panels, an aperture cover, a sun shade, and a high-gain antenna, all essential for its operation. The Roman Space Telescope aims to address significant scientific questions, including the study of dark energy, dark matter, and exoplanets beyond our solar system. To achieve these goals, the telescope will rely on a complex system of nearly 50 miles of electrical cables that facilitate communication and power various systems. This extensive network is crucial for the telescope's ability to operate effectively in the harsh environment of space. Engineers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have dedicated eight years to the design, construction, and testing of the spacecraft bus, ensuring it meets the mission's requirements. The bus measures 13 feet wide and 6.5 feet high, weighing approximately 8,400 pounds. The combination of the spacecraft and telescope will create a powerful observatory capable of transmitting 1.4 terabytes of data daily, significantly surpassing the data capabilities of previous telescopes like the James Webb and Hubble. Named after Nancy Grace Roman, a pioneering figure in astronomy and the first woman in a leadership role at NASA, the telescope honors her contributions to space science. Roman's legacy continues as the telescope embarks on its mission to explore the universe and expand our understanding of cosmic phenomena.