Moving MIRI is an Exact Science
Now that NASA's Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) is in the giant clean room at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., it's important to make sure every detail is perfect. That includes moving the MIRI. Pictured here, some engineers mount the MIRI onto an ASMIF (Ambient Science Instrument Mechanical Interface Fixture) for the next series of tests. Standing in the background, another engineer peers through a theodolite camera to ensure that the MIRI is moving exactly where it needs to go. Theodolites are used in activities like surveying to measure angles and accurately determine positions and movements. The MIRI will fly onboard NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, the next generation space telescope that will succeed the Hubble Space Telescope. For more information on the Webb telescope, visit: www.jwst.nasa.gov.
Credit: NASA/Chris Gunn; Caption: NASA/Rob Gutro