With the onslaught of emerging technologies and as a byproduct of ever-increasing curiosity, science has flourished seamlessly. Especially aeronautical science has witnessed tremendous growth. As chronicled by Shai Gal’s documentary film, Unknown: Cosmic Time Machine, intergalactic missions have become a norm. Thomas Zurbuchen and Amber Straughn are the lead members of the conjoint NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) project.
If you have watched this Netflix docu-film, you must be wondering who are Thomas Zurbuchen and Amber Straughn. Since these two scientists appear in this documentary as the key personalities of the mission, your questions are evident. Today, let us discuss the skilled scientists who made the James Webb Space Telescope and the mission to launch it possible.
Who Is Thomas Zurbuchen?
A Swiss-American astrophysicist, Thomas Zurbuchen possesses a deep interest in the field of physics and astronomy. Born and brought up in Switzerland, Thomas grew up with strict Catholic beliefs. His father was a Church preacher and his family was full of people following traditional beliefs. Zurbuchen fought against all odds and studied hard to pursue his passion.
Hailing from a family with a low education rate, Thomas became one of the most educated Zurbuchen with a doctorate degree to his name. As if studying physics wasn’t enough, he moved to the United States to join the research team at the University of Michigan. Thomas then began conducting research on several concepts but his primary focus has always been space systems.
In 2008, Thomas became a professor at the same university but soon left the job to join NASA. Here, he served as an assistant researcher for a while before being promoted to team leader. With his skills, passion and perseverance, Zurbuchen climbed the ranks soon and established the record of being the longest-continuing Associate Administrator in late 2022.
He has established himself as an international speaker alongside a scientist, a tutor and a consultant. His career took a leap in early 2023 when Thomas announced his directorship of the ETH Zurich Space. He’s supposed to join the organization as the director in August 2023 and will continue to work on his passionate projects at NASA.
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Who Is Amber Straughn?
Similar to Thomas, Amber was born into a traditional family. She grew up on a farm along with animals and spent several nights stargazing. Her curiosity led her interest in astronomy to flourish. As an elementary school student, Straughn decided to become an aeronautical scientist upon witnessing the Hubble Space Telescope. She soon became the first person in her family to attend college and graduated with a degree in physics.
Again, similar to Thomas, Amber continued studying physics and earned a doctorate degree in 2008. The same year, she joined the infamous project, the James Webb Space Telescope. It didn’t only mark the beginning of her career at NASA but also helped her fulfil her childhood dream. When Amber was called to become a part of a survey project at Hubble, her childhood fantasy came true.
As of now, Straughn works at NASA as a scientist and international speaker. Moreover, she possesses a pilot license and conducts yoga classes. Her passion towards sky and space has led her to become one of the finest pilots and astrophysicists NASA has witnessed. Amber continues to be a part of the James Webb Space Telescope.
The Team Of Scientists Behind The James Webb Space Telescope
Both scientists have appeared in Netflix’s Unknown: Cosmic Time Machine and have walked the audience through the intricacies of their project. These dynamic researchers have set their keen eyes on the majestic instrument entitled the James Webb Space Telescope. As I discuss this tool, it is currently circling the Earth and meandering in space. But, of course, they aren’t the only ones who contributed to the success of one of the most complex interspace missions.
Hundreds of people have contributed to the success of this project. It was led by John Mather along with Jonathan Gardner, Alan Johns and Bonnie Seaton. However, the head of the James Webb Space Telescope project has been changed in 2023. A couple of weeks ago, NASA announced Jane Rigby as the in charge of the project. Though Rigby is currently leading the project, Mather continues to be an integral part of the mission.
Recently, this magnificent telescope celebrated its first year anniversary in space. As portrayed by Unknown: Cosmic Time Machine, this telescope marks the beginning of a new era in the world of technology and science. This documentary film is currently premiering on Netflix!
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