NASA's Roman Space Telescope Begins Commissioning

The Roman Space Telescope, launched earlier, has started its three-month journey to the Sun-Earth Lagrange Point 2 (L2). During this time, the telescope is undergoing commissioning, where systems are being turned on, adjusted, and calibrated. The process involves deploying the solar panels, sunshade, and antenna, and preparing the primary mirror for science operations. Roman will have a stable, halo orbit around L2, offering a relatively steady orbit, stable optical performance, and an unobstructed view of the sky. This location also reduces the effect of heat from Earth, the Sun, and the Moon on infrared telescopes.