ALMA vs James Webb: Which telescope will reveal more about the universe?

In summary, ALMA and James Webb are both telescopes designed to observe different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the universe. While there may be some overlap in capabilities, there is no competition between them as they each have their own unique purpose. James Webb's ability to observe up to z=20, compared to Hubble's limit of z=9, sets it apart as a highly anticipated and valuable tool for astronomers and cosmologists. Its placement in space also eliminates atmospheric distortions, making it a promising source for new discoveries.
  • #1
revo74
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What are the differences between these telescopes and which telescope will do more for our understanding of the universe? I know that ALMA is a series (66) radio telescopes, however, it also operates with optical telescopes. James Webb is an infrared telescope.
 
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  • #2
each is designed to look at different parts of the EM spectrum
as such there is no competetion between them, they each have their own "jobs"

Observing the universe over a broad range of frequencies from low freq RF through IR, visible light and to X-rays and Gamma, gives a better overall picture of what is going on out there


Dave
 
  • #3
davenn said:
each is designed to look at different parts of the EM spectrum
as such there is no competetion between them, they each have their own "jobs"

Observing the universe over a broad range of frequencies from low freq RF through IR, visible light and to X-rays and Gamma, gives a better overall picture of what is going on out there


Dave

Thanks for the response. Are you aware of any other capabilities James Webb will be able to do that ALMA won't be able to? I read about James Webb and mentioned it to my brother. He said for 8 billion dollars it's a waste of money in light the fact that the Hubble and other optical telescopes are now outfitted with infrared capabilities and that there are other new generation telescopes coming online soon.
 
  • #4
We could simply judge which one is going to be the best by its fame. The JWST is definitely a great expectation for astronomers and cosmologists. But if we are going to judge by the facts, then we'll have a harder time to compare them because they aren't so alike. A great plus of the JWST is that it will be in space, without the distortions the atmosphere can cause. I can't wait to see what this telescope is going to discover.

cb
 
  • #5
See http://jwst.nasa.gov/comparison.html for discussion of Hubble capabilities. Among other things, it will permit views of the universe out to around z=20. The Hubble can only reach out to z=9 on the best of days.
 
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1. What is the difference between ALMA and James Webb telescopes?

ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array) and James Webb telescopes are both powerful telescopes used to observe the universe. However, they have different functions and capabilities. ALMA is designed to observe millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths, while James Webb telescope is designed to observe infrared wavelengths. This means that ALMA can observe colder and more distant objects, while James Webb telescope can observe warmer objects.

2. How do ALMA and James Webb telescopes work?

ALMA is an array of 66 radio antennas located in the Atacama Desert in Chile. These antennas work together to capture and amplify radio waves from space, which are then combined to create a high-resolution image. James Webb telescope, on the other hand, is a single telescope located in space. It uses a 6.5-meter primary mirror to collect and focus infrared light, which is then analyzed by its instruments to create images and data.

3. Which telescope is more powerful?

This question is difficult to answer definitively because ALMA and James Webb telescopes have different strengths and capabilities. ALMA is better at observing colder and more distant objects, while James Webb telescope is better at observing warmer objects. Both telescopes are incredibly powerful and have made groundbreaking discoveries in their respective fields.

4. Can ALMA and James Webb telescopes work together?

Yes, ALMA and James Webb telescopes can work together to observe the universe. In fact, they have collaborated on several projects in the past. For example, ALMA has helped to provide supporting observations for James Webb telescope's research on exoplanets. Additionally, both telescopes are part of the larger astronomical community and often share data and collaborate on research.

5. How do ALMA and James Webb telescopes contribute to our understanding of the universe?

Both ALMA and James Webb telescopes have significantly expanded our knowledge of the universe. ALMA has helped us to better understand the formation and evolution of galaxies, while James Webb telescope has provided insights into the formation of stars and planets. Together, these telescopes have opened up new avenues for research and have contributed to our understanding of the universe on a larger scale.

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