The James Webb Space Telescope has been creating cosmic excitement since its launch in December 2021.

That enthusiasm is shared by Jack C. Davis Observatory Director Dr. Thomas Herring, who will provide a presentation about the fascinating telescope on Saturday night, Aug. 19. The one-hour presentation starts at 7:30 p.m. inside the observatory, which is located above Western Nevada College’s campus at 2269 Vanpatten Ave.

In his presentation, Dr. Herring will focus on the first year of science from the telescope, which is specifically designed to conduct infrared astronomy. In contrast to the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope can view older, more distant and fainter objects because of the high resolution and high sensitivity of its instruments.

“I hope that attendees get as excited as me about the amazing things we've learned and the possibilities for new discoveries yet to come from this amazing instrument,” he said.

Following the free lecture, the observatory will present its weekly Star Party. The Western Nevada Astronomical Society hosts these community-drive parties, bringing together people with an interest in astronomy. Newcomers are always welcome and will be assisted in using a variety of telescopes as they learn about the many wonders of the universe.

Attendees will receive stickers, bookmarks and small posters of the telescope’s first anniversary image.