The JWST Users Committee (JSTUC) met in person in Baltimore on May 6 and 7, 2026. Presentations included updates on the overall status of the mission, updates to the JWST pipeline, the Rocky Worlds Director’s Discretionary Program, Cycle 5 TAC results, plans for Cycle 6, the Community ToO programs, JWST user surveys, astronomical community outreach, and the timing of the JWST review process.

The JSTUC has submitted their report, which includes feedback, updates, and formal recommendations. The report highlights the continued importance JWST plays in the astronomical community and provides feedback on optimizing the peer review process. The report includes recommendations regarding a hybrid distribution peer review model, STScI’s policy on Generative AI, and future consideration of Very Large proposals.

Are you interested in serving on the JSTUC?

The JSTUC advises STScI and the JWST Project on all aspects of observatory operations. Members must be affiliated with institutions in the U.S., Canada, or in ESA countries, but there is no restriction on citizenship. Membership lasts for three years, and the committee typically meets twice a year, in the spring and in the fall. Nominations (including self-nominations)  may be submitted at any time byemail, and are encouraged to include a curriculum vitae and a short cover letter summarizing the nominee’s relevant background and JWST-related interests. Nominations will be considered on a rolling basis, as several members rotate off after every meeting, approximately every six months.