Astro Snapshot presents recent news and spectacular imagery from space missions, observatories, and research projects around the world. Each week, one outstanding discovery or event is explained by an AMNH astrophysicist.
Hubble Repair Plans Restored
On October 31, NASA announced it will refurbish the Hubble Space Telescope in a fifth servicing mission. This reverses the 2003 decision to let Hubble fall to disrepair.
In 2008, Space Shuttle astronauts will spacewalk five times to repair ailing sensors, batteries, and gyroscopes on the telescope. The efforts will keep Hubble working until 2013.
Astronomers are thrilled by the news, as Hubble’s prolific images are essential in understanding the Universe.
Image Credits
NASA
Related Science Bulletins
Hubble Space Telescope: 15 years of Achievement (April 25, 2005)
Related Links:
- Hubblesitehttp://hubblesite.org/