The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is designed to observe the universe in the infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum. While light can be affected by gravitational lensing, the concept of observing the universe behind us due to highly curved light paths is not applicable to the JWST. Here's why:
Field of View: The JWST has a relatively narrow field of view compared to ground-based telescopes. Its primary mirror is 6.5 meters in diameter, which allows it to capture more light and higher-resolution images. However, this also means it has a smaller field of view. The telescope's design and its intended observations focus on specific targets or regions of the sky, rather than a wide-angle view that could potentially capture light from behind.
Observing Strategies: The JWST will primarily conduct targeted observations, focusing on specific objects or regions of interest in the universe. These targets are carefully selected based on scientific priorities and objectives. The telescope's observations are planned in advance, with specific goals and targets in mind. Therefore, the idea of accidentally capturing light from behind is highly unlikely, as the telescope's observations are meticulously planned and executed.
Gravitational Lensing: While gravitational lensing can distort and curve light paths, it typically occurs when light passes through massive objects like galaxies or galaxy clusters. Gravitational lensing effects can be detected and studied by astronomers, and they have been observed and analyzed using various telescopes and instruments, including the Hubble Space Telescope. However, the concept of highly curved light paths causing the JWST to observe the universe behind us is not a typical scenario or a concern in the context of the telescope's observations.
In summary, the design and observational strategies of the JWST, combined with our understanding of gravitational lensing, make it highly unlikely that the telescope would inadvertently capture light from behind, resulting in observations of the universe behind us. The telescope's observations are planned and targeted, focusing on specific objects and regions in space.