NASA technicians have successfully integrated the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope’s payload into a spacecraft designed to deliver the observatory to space. This milestone marks a significant step towards the telescope’s launch, which is now on track for completion by fall 2026 and launch no later than May 2027.
The integration of the telescope, instrument carrier, and two instruments has paved the way for extensive testing. The first test will verify each major element operates as designed and assesses the combined performance of the hardware. Environmental tests will subject the payload to extreme conditions such as electromagnetic interference, vibration, and thermal vacuum environments, ensuring compatibility with the launch vehicle and other observatory hardware.
Additionally, the deployable aperture cover will be integrated with the outer barrel assembly, while solar panels will be added before spring. The structure will then be joined to the payload and spacecraft this fall. These tests will verify the instruments’ optical alignment, ensure the communications antennas do not interfere with other equipment, and assess the telescope’s performance across its expected operating temperature range.
The successful integration brings NASA closer to unveiling the mysteries of the universe as never before. “We’re excited about Roman’s transformative observations,” said Mark Clampin, acting deputy associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/universe/nasa-joins-telescope-instruments-to-roman-spacecraft