NASA's iconic Hubble Space Telescope has temporarily ceased its universe observations.
AP reports that operations have halted due to a critical malfunction in one of the telescope's gyroscopes, which are essential components for the telescope's precise pointing system.
Hubble Space Telescope Temporarily Stops Observations
On May 24, Hubble entered a protective "safe mode" after one of its three remaining gyroscopes began providing faulty telemetry readings. This automatic response suspends all science operations to prevent further damage while maintaining the telescope's stability and health.
(Photo : NASA via Getty Images)
Gyroscopes are vital for measuring Hubble's slew rates and determining its exact orientation in space. Over the past few months, the malfunctioning gyroscope intermittently disrupted Hubble's scientific operations, leading to the current full suspension.
NASA officials have assured that Hubble remains safe despite being inactive. Flight controllers are currently evaluating the situation and planning the next steps.
The space agency intended to outline a path forward by early June. According to a NASA news release, the instruments on Hubble are stable, and the telescope is in good health.
The Hubble Telescope Through the Years
Launched aboard the space shuttle Discovery in 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope has been a cornerstone of astronomical research, offering unprecedented views of the universe.
Hubble's discoveries range from finding new black holes and solar systems to capturing the birth of stars. The telescope recently celebrated its 34th anniversary, marking over three decades of extraordinary scientific discoveries.
The gyroscopes of Hubble are crucial to its operation, maintaining its stability and precise aim. During the astronauts' final servicing mission in 2009, Hubble received six new gyroscopes.
However, over the years, three of these have failed. Despite these setbacks, NASA maintains that Hubble can still function effectively with just one or two operational gyroscopes.
Proposals to Repair Hubble
Recently, American billionaire Jared Isaacman has volunteered to fund and personally join a repair mission for Hubble. Isaacman, known for his interest in space exploration, proposed this private mission to NASA.
However, the space agency has expressed concerns about the potential risks involved. Internal NASA emails obtained by NPR reveal apprehensions about the hazards of such a mission, including the worst-case scenario where an accident could leave the telescope inoperative or result in tragic outcomes for the astronauts involved.
Despite these challenges, NASA is optimistic about Hubble's future. The agency anticipates that the telescope will continue making significant discoveries throughout this decade and possibly into the next.
On June 3, NASA announced a press conference to provide an update on Hubble's status, scheduled later today, June 4, at 4:00 p.m. EDT (2000 GMT).
NASA officials, including Mark Clampin, director of the Astrophysics Division, and Patrick Crouse, Hubble's project manager, will provide further updates on the telescope's status and future operations.
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