Hubble Space Telescope: 35+ Years of Discovery
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is one of the most significant astronomical instruments ever deployed into orbit. Launched on April 24, 1990, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-31), Hubble has provided unprecedented views of the universe.
What is the Hubble Space Telescope?
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is one of the most significant astronomical instruments ever deployed into orbit. Launched on April 24, 1990, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-31), Hubble has provided unprecedented views of the universe. Named after astronomer Edwin Hubble, the telescope is a joint project of NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA). Designed to observe ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared light, Hubble's position above Earth's atmosphere allows it to capture high-resolution images free from atmospheric distortion.
Mission and Purpose
Hubble's mission is to explore the cosmos, providing data that has led to numerous breakthroughs in astrophysics. Its primary objectives include studying the formation of stars and galaxies, measuring the rate of expansion of the universe, and observing the atmospheres of exoplanets. Over its more than three decades of operation, Hubble has helped confirm the existence of dark energy and provided critical data on the age of the universe. The telescope's findings have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the cosmos.
Orbital Characteristics
The Hubble Space Telescope orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 547 kilometres, with an inclination of 28.5 degrees. It completes an orbit every 96 to 97 minutes, allowing it to observe a wide range of celestial objects. Hubble's NORAD ID is 20580. Its orbit is carefully maintained to maximise its observational capabilities while minimising the impact of Earth's atmosphere and radiation belts.
Significance and Legacy
Hubble has fundamentally changed our understanding of the universe. Its deep field images have revealed thousands of galaxies in what appeared to be empty patches of sky, providing insights into the early universe. Hubble's observations have led to over 18,000 scientific papers, making it one of the most productive scientific instruments in history. Its legacy is not only in the data it has gathered but also in inspiring future generations of astronomers and scientists.
Current Status
Despite its age, Hubble remains operational and continues to make significant contributions to astronomy. It has undergone several servicing missions, the last of which was in 2009, to upgrade its instruments and extend its lifespan. Hubble is expected to remain in service until at least the late 2020s, with its successor, the James Webb Space Telescope, already operational. Hubble's ongoing observations can be tracked via the Orbital Radar Satellite Library, which provides updates on its status and recent findings.
