General Observers Program
The Space Telescope Science Institute's General Observers Program funds innovative research projects using the James Webb Space Telescope for groundbreaking astrophysical investigations.
Funder: Space Telescope Science Institute
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (Cycle 6 proposal deadline) | April 30, 2027 (Cycle 6 budget submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: No fixed maximum; time allocation up to 7,700 hours for Cycle 6; funding varies by proposal scope and NASA policies.
Summary: Annual opportunity for researchers worldwide to propose scientific observations using the James Webb Space Telescope.
Key Information: Proposals from PRC-only or PRC+US teams are ineligible for funding but may receive telescope time.
Description
The General Observers Program, administered by the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), provides annual opportunities for astronomers and researchers globally to propose observation projects using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Selected proposals receive telescope time and, if eligible, associated research funding. The program supports a wide array of scientific investigations through a competitive, dual-anonymous peer review process, enabling cutting-edge research in astrophysics and related fields.
