NASA Seeks Industry Input to Save Hubble Space Telescope

NASA has issued a Request for Information (RFI) on October 29th, seeking insights into industry capabilities for in-space servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope. This move comes as the venerable observatory faces a looming deadline for a potential reboost, with experts predicting that without intervention, Hubble will re-enter Earth’s atmosphere sometime between 2033 and 2034 ¹³.

Hubble, which has been operational for over three decades, continues to make significant scientific discoveries, cementing its place as one of the most important astronomical instruments ever built ¹. However, its current altitude is decreasing due to atmospheric drag, dropping from 362 miles (583 km) in 2002 to 292 miles (470 km) today ³. To ensure Hubble’s longevity, a servicing mission must take place by 2032, with a reboost to 373 miles (600 km) potentially extending its operational lifespan by at least 25 years ³.

The RFI aims to gather information about the industry’s ability to perform such a critical task, with responses due by November 30 ³. This initiative underscores NASA’s commitment to preserving the legacy of Hubble and ensuring that it continues to contribute to our understanding of the universe for many years to come.

What we know

• Hubble's current altitude is decreasing due to atmospheric drag ¹³
• It is predicted to re-enter Earth's atmosphere between 2033 and 2034 ¹³
• A servicing mission needs to occur by 2032 to extend Hubble's operational lifespan ¹³
• Hubble has been operational for over three decades and continues to make significant scientific discoveries ¹
• Hubble's altitude decreased from 362 miles (583 km) in 2002 to 292 miles (470 km) currently ³
• A reboost to 373 miles (600 km) could extend Hubble's operational lifespan by at least 25 years ³
• Responses to the RFI are due by November 30 ³