I Force of gravity on JWST while orbiting L2

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The discussion centers on the relationship between centrifugal force and gravitational force on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) while it orbits L2. When the JWST is at a point in its L2 orbit, the centrifugal force vector aligns with the sun-earth plane, but if displaced vertically, it still acts towards the plane. The gravitational force from the Earth and Sun always pulls the JWST towards the plane, regardless of its position. This results in a net force that draws the telescope back toward the orbital plane. The principles discussed apply universally, not just at Lagrange points.
Eugene
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Concerning the centrifugal force acting on James Webb telescope
When the Webb is at a point on its L2 orbit, (not at L2), what direction is the centrifugal force vector compared to the direction of the combined earth-sun gravity vector on the opposite side? Is the direction of this centrifugal vector ALWAYS parallel to the sun-earth plane? or is it always opposite (straght line connects the combined gravity and centrifugal)?
 
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The Sun, Earth, and Lagrange points are all in the same plane, which is also the orbital plane. Therefore, the centrifugal force in the corotating frame also lies in this plane.
 
but if the scope is 500,000 kilometers north of this point(on the L2 orbit) it is no longer in the plane. What is the relationship of the gravity force to the centrifugal force then?
 
The centrifugal force will always be in the plane of rotation. Regardless of whether or not you displace the satellite from the plane itself. Any displacement up or below the plane will therefore give a resultant force that attracts the satellite towards the plane. This is true everywhere, not only at the Lagrange points.
 
Many thanks!
 

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