12 Incredible Space Missions Set to Unravel Universe's Biggest Mysteries

2. James Webb Space Telescope: Peering into Cosmic Origins

Meet the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)—the most powerful space observatory ever launched. A collaboration between NASA, ESA, and CSA, Webb specializes in catching infrared light, making it possible to view galaxies and stars as they were billions of years ago. Since becoming operational in 2022, JWST has already rewritten the textbooks: it’s spotted some of the earliest galaxies, revealed the chemistry of alien worlds’ atmospheres, and explored cosmic events at the edge of time. Why does it matter? In short, Webb isn’t just snapping pretty pictures—it’s decoding how galaxies, stars, and planets first formed. The telescope’s golden mirror and deep-space perch let it peer through cosmic dust that blinds even its legendary predecessor, Hubble. Expect ongoing breakthroughs in everything from the search for habitable planets to unraveling the universe’s expansion. If you’re even a little curious about our origins, JWST is worth watching.