NIRSpec Spectroscopy Modes

Near-Infrared Spectrograph observing modes for astronomical spectroscopy

Slitted Spectroscopy

Purpose

Captures the spectrum of a single object—a single star, exoplanet, or distant galaxy—in a wide field of view. Used to analyze the spectrum of a small area of an extended object.

How It Works

  • • Single slit isolates target object
  • • Light passes through dispersive element
  • • High spectral resolution for detailed analysis
  • • Spatial information along slit preserved

Applications

  • • Stellar classification and composition
  • • Exoplanet atmosphere characterization
  • • Galaxy kinematics and redshift measurement
Field of ViewSlitTargetDispersed Spectrum
NIRSpec Components

About NIRSpec

The Near-Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec) on JWST operates from 0.6 to 5.3 microns, covering visible through near-infrared wavelengths. Its versatile observing modes enable everything from single-target high-resolution spectroscopy to massive multi-object surveys of the early universe.