The Hubble Space Telescope, a renowned observatory that has been delivering stunning astronomical images for over three decades, has once again encountered an issue. On May 24, 2023, one of the telescope's gyroscopes provided faulty telemetry readings, causing Hubble to enter safe mode and suspend its science operations (Forbes, News9Live). This is not the first time this particular gyroscope has caused trouble; it also gave problematic readings in November 2023 and April 2024. Despite these setbacks, NASA remains optimistic about Hubble's future. The agency anticipates that the telescope will continue making discoveries throughout this decade and possibly into the next (NASA).
The gyroscopes in Hubble are crucial for pointing the telescope accurately towards its targets. Each gyroscope consists of a spinning wheel, electronics, and thin wires known as flex leads. Over the years, these wires have been prone to corrosion, bending, and breaking (News9Live). Hubble has used 22 gyros in total; eight of them have failed. Currently, only three gyroscopes are operational on the telescope.
NASA will provide an update on Hubble's operations during a media teleconference scheduled for June 4, 2023. Mark Clampin, director of the Astrophysics Division at NASA Headquarters, and Patrick Crouse, project manager for the Hubble Space Telescope at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, will participate in the teleconference (NASA).
Hubble has been a significant contributor to our understanding of the universe. Its iconic images have captured the public's imagination and inspired generations of scientists. The telescope has provided valuable data on various astronomical phenomena, from distant galaxies to our own solar system (NASA).
