Part of the problem with such programs that you might not be aware of is budget consistency.
Many times program managers will pad a budget and inflate a budget because they are expecting budget cuts. Their practice is a means of ensuring their program survives.
The JWST appears to have been a victim of erratic budgeting and scheduling as other programs vied for priority in budgeting. Telescopes would likely be the first to put on a backburner.
Let’s see how the new administration sets practice standards. Maybe we will see some welcome changes.
The goals and prescription were changed twice.... when orogram objectives change ur is hard to maintain schedule. Program creep always affects budget