U.S. Department of Defense
Dejuly25 2 Promo 62e2eee82318e

DoD Tracks Down Beryllium for Webb Space Telescope

July 28, 2022
The long visual reach of the James Webb Space Telescope would not be possible without the unique properties of beryllium metal used for large reflective mirrors.

Beryllium is a unique material chosen for the mirrors of NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. It's extremely strong but light in weight and maintains its shape even at cryogenic temperatures as found in deep space. Since the sensitivity of a space telescope such as the Webb is a function of its mirrors’ reflective areas, holding precise shapes in deep space helps capture light from distant galaxies.

The James Webb Space Telescope employs a primary mirror that's 21 ft., 4 in. (6.5 m) across. Functioning as a form of “silent partner,” the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has helped NASA procure the beryllium it needed for the massive space telescope and to capture light from sources light years away.

The shift from traditional glass-based mirrors to components based on materials such as beryllium, which the DoD uses in weapons systems and surveillance satellites, has extended NASA’s exploratory reach into the universe.

“Beryllium is a really good material for that,” said Payl Geithner, a deputy project manager for Webb based at Goddard Space Flight Center. “It's really stiff, and once it gets below about -300°F, it basically stops shrinking.”

The excellent temperature stability is essential for the effective operation of the Webb telescope (see figure). In addition, beryllium’s stiffness enables the massive mirror and space telescope to withstand the high shock and vibration levels during rocket launch.

To aid in the development of essential materials like beryllium for space and warfare systems, Executive Order 14017 from President Joseph Biden made it possible for the U.S. DoD to develop a strategic roadmap to increase domestic production of critical materials.

Deborah G. Rosenblum, the DoD’s assistant defense secretary for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs, explains, “The U.S. cannot have a secure, reliable domestic supply chain without robust organic capabilities. It is critically important for the U.S.'s future economic security that we establish end-to-end, commercial-scale, domestic supply chains across numerous strategic materials supply chains.”

About the Author

Jack Browne | Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.

Sponsored Recommendations

MMIC Medium-Power Amplifier Covers 6 to 12 GHz

Nov. 11, 2024
Mini-Circuits is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of RF, IF, and microwave components from DC to 86GHz.

RF Amplifier and Filter Testing with Mini-Circuits Power Sensors

Nov. 11, 2024
RF power sensors are essential for accurately measuring RF components like filters and amplifiers, focusing on parameters such as insertion loss and gain. Employing instruments...

High-Frequency Modules to 110 GHz

Nov. 11, 2024
Mini-Circuits’ wide selection of high-frequency modules are designed, assembled and tested in-house by the best talent in the industry at our Deer Park Technology Center. The ...

Defense Technology: From Sea to Space

Oct. 31, 2024
Learn about these advancements in defense technology, including smart sensors, hypersonic weapons, and high-power microwave systems.