NASA modifies Hubble Space Telescope's targeting method due to a malfunctioning system

Hubble Space Telescope Transitions to One-Gyro Mode

The Hubble Space Telescope, a cornerstone of astronomical discovery, has entered a new phase of operation. Due to a faulty gyroscope, the telescope has been operating in safe mode and suspending science observations since early May. However, NASA has decided to operate the telescope with one gyro for the remainder of its operational life.

The faulty gyro is experiencing a condition called 'saturation', causing it to provide readings indicating the maximum slew rate regardless of the telescope's actual speed. This has led to the temporary issue with the gyro's electronics, which NASA has been attempting to reset.

The change to one-gyro operation will limit the Hubble Space Telescope's observing flexibility. It will restrict the telescope's ability to point at certain celestial targets, particularly those requiring precise tracking of moving objects closer than Mars. This means the telescope may not be able to observe planets in the Solar System as effectively.

Despite these limitations, the Hubble Space Telescope can continue making science observations with only one gyro. Engineers are currently reconfiguring the spacecraft and ground system for the new one-gyro operation. Science operations are expected to resume by mid-June.

NASA has been preparing a backup plan to operate the Hubble Space Telescope with one gyro for over 20 years to extend its lifespan. The agency anticipates that the telescope will continue making new cosmic discoveries alongside other observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope for years to come in the one-gyro mode.

However, the one-gyro mode will affect the Hubble Space Telescope's ability to focus and maneuver, requiring more time to slew and locate a target. This could potentially impact planned future observing projects. NASA has not yet provided specific details on how this will impact its scientific observations.

The Hubble Space Telescope's gyroscopes enable it to change direction (slewing) and focus on specific celestial targets such as planets, nebulae, galaxies, or star clusters. The telescope originally operated with six gyros, but it has been operating with three active gyros out of the six since the final servicing mission in 2009.

Despite this setback, the Hubble Space Telescope remains a vital tool for astronomical research. Its unique capabilities continue to provide valuable insights into the universe, and it is expected to make significant contributions in the coming years.

NASA modifies Hubble Space Telescope's targeting method due to a malfunctioning system