Hubble Space Telescope, which has been in operation for 34 years, is currently in safe mode due to a faulty gyroscope. This essential component is responsible for pointing the telescope accurately towards its target. Despite this setback, NASA has scheduled a press conference on June 4 at 4 pm EDT to provide updates on Hubble’s operations.
Hubble’s gyroscopes are vital to its full science program. The telescope was last refurbished in 2009 when astronauts installed six new gyroscopes, including three spares for redundancy. However, since then, three of the gyros have failed, with the most recent failure occurring last week. If one of these gyroscopes cannot be fixed, Hubble will need to operate in a less efficient mode, reducing its science capabilities significantly.
A proposal for a private mission to service the space telescope led by Jared Isaacman has raised concerns within NASA due to the uncertainties and risks involved for both private astronauts and the telescope itself. The proposed mission would require spacewalks from all four astronauts as the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule lacks a robotic arm and airlock. Spacewalking is not without risks; about one-fifth of astronauts experience serious incidents or close calls during these missions.
NASA TV will broadcast live from NASA Headquarters on June 4 at 4 pm EDT to provide further information on Hubble’s current status and potential future operations.