ESA Science & Technology - Full-scale simulator of the JWST spacecraft's key elements

This photograph shows simulators of the James Webb Space Telescope's optical telescope element, primary backplane assembly, and the sunshield's integrated validation article, mated together in Northrop Grumman's high bay in Space Park, California.

Engineers used the simulator to develop the James Webb Space Telescope's hardware design, checking that the actual telescope components will fit properly when installed on the flight model. In addition, technicians use the simulator to gain experience handling large elements in advance of working with the actual hardware that will fly in space.