**Investigation Underway to Rename NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope Amid Allegations of Persecution**
NASA is currently evaluating whether it should rename its flagship astronomical observatory, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The controversy arises from allegations that James Webb, after whom the telescope is named, was involved in the persecution of gay and lesbian individuals during his tenure in government. Although some astronomers argue that keeping Webb’s name on the telescope would perpetuate bigotry and anti-LGBT+ sentiment, others believe that there is insufficient evidence against Webb and are waiting for the results of an internal investigation by NASA. Given the significance of the JWST, NASA’s largest astronomical project in decades, the stakes surrounding the decision are high.
**Prominent Astronomers Petition for a Name Change**
In May, four prominent astronomers initiated a petition calling for a name change to the JWST due to Webb’s alleged involvement in discrimination. To date, the petition has garnered 1,250 signatures, including those of scientists who have been granted observing time on the telescope. To review Webb’s policies and actions, NASA’s acting chief historian, Brian Odom, is collaborating with a non-agency historian to examine archival documents. NASA will make a decision regarding the name change only after the investigation concludes.
**James Webb’s Involvement in the Lavender Scare**
James Webb, who led NASA from 1961 to 1968, was chosen as the namesake for the JWST due to his advocacy for maintaining science as a priority within the agency during the Apollo program. Prior to his NASA career, Webb held various administrative roles in the US government. During the period known as the lavender scare in the late 1940s, gay and lesbian employees were systematically persecuted and terminated from their positions due to their sexual orientation. Some argue that Webb played a role in this campaign by passing discriminatory material to a senator responsible for orchestrating the persecution. However, historian David Johnson asserts that there is no evidence indicating Webb’s leadership or instigation of the lavender scare.
**Renaming Amidst a Broader Reckoning**
The push for a name change to the JWST is part of a larger movement towards reassessing the names of buildings, facilities, and other objects named after controversial historical figures. For example, efforts have been made to rename a NASA center in Mississippi named after Senator John Stennis, who supported racial segregation in the 1960s. NASA itself has sought to address past discrimination by honoring figures such as Mary Jackson, the agency’s first Black female engineer, and Nancy Grace Roman, its first chief astronomer, through building names and the naming of future projects.
**Reflecting Modern Values**
With the JWST’s potential to revolutionize astronomy, some argue that it is crucial for the telescope’s name to reflect contemporary values. Astronomers express the importance of sending a message to junior members and students within the field and believe that those honored with telescope names should align with societal values. The final decision on the renaming rests with NASA administrator Bill Nelson, who has not publicly voiced an opinion on the matter. While alternative names have not been officially proposed, suggestions include Harriet Tubman, an advocate for the abolition of slavery, and Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, whose work revolutionized astronomers’ understanding of the Universe.
**Future Implications and the NASA Investigation**
If the telescope is not renamed, some astronomers already plan to acknowledge LGBT+ rights in the acknowledgements sections of papers published using JWST data. Many individuals are eagerly awaiting the results of NASA’s investigation into James Webb’s alleged involvement in persecution. Astronomers emphasize the importance of examining the historical record and reflecting on whether the choice to honor Webb would be made again.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the potential renaming of the JWST highlights the need for reconsideration of historical figures who have lent their names to significant institutions and projects. As society progresses, it becomes essential to align these names with contemporary values and strive for inclusivity and equality.
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