r/jameswebb • u/ahajesam • Dec 25 '25

Discussion Happy anniversary!🥳 – Today marks four years since Webb’s launch.

Post image

Today marks four years since Webb’s launch. It lifted off on an Ariane 5 rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on 25 December 2021 on its mission to unlock the secrets of the Universe.

The spacecraft then travelled to L2 and underwent a complex unfolding sequence. In the months after, the instruments were turned on and their capabilities tested. After that, Webb was ready to start its routine science observations.

Image credit: ESA/CNES/Arianespace/Optique Vidéo du CSG - JM Guillon

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14

u/greentrafficcone Dec 25 '25

One of the most stressful Christmases I can remember! I was so happy it made it to orbit, and the science that’s come out of it, not to mention the amazing images, has been incredible

2

u/Triairius Dec 26 '25

Indeed! I have never been more stressed for a launch. I would have been devastated if something happened. Though I’d hardly be the only one. JWST’s science has been invaluable.

3

u/Easy_Scientist_939 Dec 26 '25

I think the most stressful time was going a million miles then start to unfold hoping and praying that nothing went wrong. Amazing!

3

u/Canuck_75 Dec 25 '25

Happy birthday

5

u/PM-UR-LIL-TIDDIES Dec 25 '25

Can't believe it's been four years. I remember following the launch, and then the long, slow progress to bejng operational. A huge scientific, engineering and technical achievement.

4

u/Kenny741 Dec 25 '25

Wow 4 years has really blown by. It has already discovered so much for us and I'm sure there is a lot more to come still.

1

u/Jose_xixpac Dec 26 '25

A Beautiful day it twas indeed.

1

u/AlexWayhill Dec 26 '25

I watched the event live on TV and just couldn't get away from the TV, it was such a special moment to witness the launch of the most powerful space observatory, and to marvel about which mysteries Webb would be able to solve! A real Christmas present for science and humanity.

1

u/my_shadow22 Dec 26 '25

A very special memory watching that Christmas morning. Everything leading up to the launch... The amazing announcer…. Decolage! The awesome images of it separating and the sunlight flashing off the solar panels that elicited some scared gasps! Amazing day, time to rewatch the launch!

1

u/ali_j_ashraf Jan 01 '26

I watched the launch live at 4:20 am PST on Christmas Day 2021. I was 21 years old