Host a Webb Space Telescope Community Event for First

Anniversary 2023

The James Webb Space Telescope (Webb) is the largest, most powerful and complex space telescope ever built and launched into space (mission trailer). NASA and its partners want to share mark the experience of the Webb Space Telescope’s first images anniversary of its first images, released on July 12, 2022, with communities all over the United States and abroad. 

We will help community organizations celebrate this generational moment in our exploration of the universe by hosting Webb Space Telescope Community Events (in-person, virtual or hybrid). The release of Webb’s first images in July 2022This anniversary, represents a unique opportunity to engage your community through some of humanity’s biggest questions: How does the universe work? How did we get here? Are we alone?

This is part of a long-term, sustained public engagement initiative. NASA’s vision for the Community Events is to create and nurture generations of science enthusiasts, including underserved audiences, through long-term, meaningful engagement with Webb’s discoveries. More than 450 organizations in the US U.S. celebrated Webb’s launch, which was on December 25, 2021, by hosting events around the country through the fall and winter. To apply to be a Community Event host, click here. Deadline for applications is Friday, February 25, 2022.

To apply to be a Community Event host, click here. Deadline for applications is Friday, February 25, 2022.

Image Removed

Image: The James Webb Space Telescope upon separating from the final Ariane V rocket stage.

Jump to:

• Engagement Goals
• Who Can Be a Host
• What We Will Provide
• Event Timing and Format
• Draft Webb Space Telescope Community Events

More information

• Who hosted Community Events for launch
• Webb's launch and deployment
• The Webb Blog
• The science 

If you have questions, please contact Anita Dey (anita.dey@nasa.gov) or Peter Sooy (peter.r.sooy@nasa.gov).

What We Will Provide 

• A point of contact to answer questions and provide assistance as necessary (U.S. only)
• Access to expert knowledge 
• Optional training (U.S. only)
• Editable public presentation slide deck
• Selected physical materials (may include bookmarks, stickers, etc.) (U.S. only)
• Digital materials (activity guides, videos, web features, etc.)
• Materials to help you promote your events (including editable digital flyers)
• Updates on Webb’s status
• Ways to connect to others in your area who are interested in celebrating Webb’s first images (U.S. only)

Event Timing and Format

First image Community Events can take place anytime between the day the images are released in July and October. Events that take place on the day of image release, however, will be more visible. The events can be in-person, virtual or hybrid. 

Requirements

• Have a safety plan, including COVID-19 considerations, as well as a virtual back-up plan for in person events
• Work with community partners to reach underserved audiences in their communities
• Host an event that is free or does not charge an extra fee in addition to standard admission & open to the public (or your membership)
• Offer feedback through our evaluation form

To apply to be a Community Event host, click here. Deadline for applications is Friday, February 25, 2022.

In 2022, more than 600 communities in the U.S. celebrated the release of Webb's first images.