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SCIENCE
What is the Hubble Space Telescope?
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The Hubble Space Telescope is a powerful astronomical observatory that orbits Earth, providing astronomers and scientists with incredible views of the universe. It was launched into space by the Space Shuttle Discovery in April 1990 and has since revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos.
Key features and facts about the Hubble Space Telescope include:
Purpose: The primary goal of the Hubble Space Telescope is to observe distant galaxies, stars, and celestial objects in various wavelengths of light, including visible, ultraviolet, and infrared.
Instruments: Hubble is equipped with a range of instruments that allow it to capture high-resolution images, study the chemical composition of celestial objects, analyze the atmospheres of planets outside our solar system, and explore the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy.
Discoveries: Over its operational lifetime, Hubble has made numerous groundbreaking discoveries, including determining the rate of expansion of the universe (the Hubble Constant), identifying supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies, and capturing detailed images of distant galaxies and nebulae.
Maintenance: The Hubble Space Telescope has been serviced and upgraded several times by astronauts during Space Shuttle missions to ensure its continued operation and to install new instruments and technologies.
Images: Hubble is renowned for its stunning and detailed images of celestial objects, which have not only advanced scientific research but have also captured the public’s imagination and inspired awe and wonder about the universe.
Collaborations: Hubble is operated by NASA in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA). Scientists and researchers from around the world have access to its data, leading to a wealth of scientific discoveries and publications.
Future: Despite its age, Hubble continues to be a vital tool for astronomers and is expected to operate well into the 2020s. Its successor, the James Webb Space Telescope, is set to launch and complement Hubble’s observations with its advanced capabilities.
The Hubble Space Telescope has fundamentally changed our understanding of the universe, providing valuable insights into the cosmos and captivating the world with its breathtaking images and scientific discoveries.
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