The Hubble Space Telescope was launched into orbit in 1990 and has provided invaluable insights into the vast universe beyond our planet. However, as the years have passed, many people wonder whether it is still orbiting in space or has been retired. In this article, we will explore the current status of the Hubble Space Telescope and answer the question of whether it is still in orbit.
The History of the Hubble Space Telescope
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is a space observatory that was launched into orbit in 1990. It was named after the astronomer Edwin Hubble and is named as one of NASA’s Great Observatories. The telescope was designed to be serviced by space shuttle crews that would repair and upgrade it during its lifetime.
The Purpose of the HST
The HST was designed to help scientists study the universe in unprecedented detail. It has helped astronomers make some of the most significant discoveries in astronomy, such as the age of the universe, the existence of dark energy, and the discovery of exoplanets.
Servicing Missions
Since its launch, the HST has had five servicing missions. During these missions, astronauts have repaired and replaced various components of the telescope, including its main camera, the Wide Field Planetary Camera 2, and its solar panels. The servicing missions have helped to extend the life of the telescope and improve its capabilities.
The Current Status of the HST
The Most Recent Servicing Mission
The most recent servicing mission was in 2009, and since then, the HST has been operating with no major issues. The telescope has continued to produce groundbreaking science and has helped astronomers make new discoveries about the universe.
The HST’s Orbit
The HST is in a low Earth orbit, which means that it is gradually being pulled back towards Earth by gravity. To counteract this, the telescope uses thrusters to maintain its altitude and orientation. The telescope’s orbit is also periodically boosted by the Space Shuttle’s Solid Rocket Boosters, which are used to increase its altitude and extend its lifespan.
The Future of the HST
The HST is expected to remain in operation until at least 2025, and possibly even longer. The telescope’s science operations are managed by the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, which coordinates observations by astronomers around the world.
FAQs: Is the Hubble Space Telescope still in orbit?
Is the Hubble Space Telescope still operational?
Yes, the Hubble Space Telescope is still fully operational and continues to provide astronomers with new insights about our universe. Since its launch in 1990, the telescope has undergone several repairs and upgrades to maintain its scientific capabilities. NASA has also extended its mission several times to ensure it continues to gather data for breakthrough scientific discoveries.
How long has the Hubble Space Telescope been in orbit?
The Hubble Space Telescope has been in orbit since its launch on April 24, 1990. It orbits Earth at an altitude of about 340 miles, completing a full orbit every 97 minutes. Over the years, it has proved to be one of the most productive scientific instruments ever built, generating a vast amount of data that has contributed significantly to our understanding of the universe.
What has the Hubble Space Telescope discovered?
The Hubble Space Telescope has made numerous groundbreaking discoveries, including the existence of dark energy, the age of the universe, and the discovery of new planets. It has also provided us with stunning images of distant galaxies, nebulae, and stars. The telescope has allowed us to study the universe at a level of detail never before possible, providing us with invaluable data that has led to many scientific breakthroughs.
How long will the Hubble Space Telescope remain in orbit?
The Hubble Space Telescope is expected to remain in orbit for several more years, and its mission may be extended further into the future. NASA has plans to launch the James Webb Space Telescope in 2021, which will also study the universe in new and exciting ways. While Hubble will eventually come to the end of its operational life, its scientific legacy will continue to inspire future generations of space researchers.
