Over thirteen billion years of cosmic history lie etched in the light that travels across the universe. Join Dr. Kenneth Harris, former rocket scientist and integration engineer to learn about the next generation technology developed for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) as humanity's most advanced tool for decoding this ancient story—revealing planets, star systems, and the violent birth and death of celestial bodies in unprecedented detail. But how does it accomplish such a feat?
In this keynote, we’ll dive into the intersection of cutting-edge hardware and software innovations that power JWST. From its revolutionary segmented mirror and cryogenic cooling systems to the precision algorithms that process terabytes of data into vivid images of the cosmos. Participants will gain insights into how billions of years worth of data translate to breathtaking images that expand for light years, peaking human curiosity and challenging us all to explore beyond our world.
Dr. Kenneth F. Harris II is a former NASA Rocket Scientist, education leader, and globally recognized keynote speaker who has inspired audiences in over seven countries. With a 17-year STEM career that began at age 16, Dr. Harris blends deep technical expertise with strategic leadership—having served both in high-stakes aerospace roles and as Vice Chair of the Prince George’s County Board of Educa...