Exoplanet and Planetary Science with the James Webb Space Telescope
JWST is uniquely primed to unravel the mysteries of the star and planet formation processes, and make breakthrough discoveries in exoplanet and planetary science and the origins of life. It was designed around four main science themes, two of which are central in exoplanet and planetary science studies. The goal of the JWST Birth of Stars and Protoplanetary Systems theme is to unravel the birth and early evolution of stars, from infall on to dust-enshrouded protostars, to the genesis of planetary systems. The goal of the JWST Planetary Systems and Origins of Life theme is to determine the physical and chemical properties of planetary systems, and investigate the potential for the origins of life in those systems. JWST is uniquely primed to solve these mysteries given the combination of its high resolution observing modes, imaging, spectroscopy (including transit spectroscopy) and coronographic capabilities, and superb near and mid-IR sensitivity. JWST's planetary exploration theme also includes a rich solar system science case that includes imaging and spectroscopic characterization of Mars and the outer planets, Kuiper belt objects, dwarf planets, solar system moons, ocean worlds, asteroids, comets, and rings.
As the flight and science operations center for the James Webb Space Telescope, we enable the astronomical community to transform ideas into scientific discoveries and help them obtain the best science. We operate the observatory and maintain its systems and its orbit. During science operations, we solicit proposals to use the telescope, schedule observations, provide calibrated scientific data, and curate a data archive that is open to astronomers and the public.
JWST Science Resources
ERS Programs have no exclusive access period and can be used as a basis for GO Cycle 1 Archival Research Proposals and helped the community prepare for GO Cycle 2.
JWST has unprecedented capabilities to study planetary systems in the making, exoplanets and solar system’s planets, and small-body population.
Observing opportunities can be found in JWST user documentation (JDox).
JWST user documentation (JDox) includes examples of JWST science use cases to help the exoplanet and planetary science communities prepare for JWST observing.
STScI offers a wide range of community support opportunities to turn ideas into great JWST discoveries.
The approved Guaranteed Time Observations (GTO) and Early Release Science programs give a sample of the science-transforming observations JWST carries out.
JWST Science Publications from the Community
STScI maintains a list of refereed publications from the scientific literature with significant JWST content. This list includes refereed articles describing science cases, anticipated observations, and simulations.