NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, a cornerstone of astronomical research for over three decades, is transitioning to a one-gyroscope operational mode following a series of technical issues (via Gizmodo).
This strategic move aims to prolong the telescope's lifespan and maintain its scientific output despite recurring problems with one of its remaining gyroscopes.
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope transitions to one-gyroscope mode amid technical issues, aiming to extend its lifespan and maintain scientific observations.NASA
The Hubble Space Telescope's Gyroscope Problem
Launched in 1990, Hubble has far exceeded its expected lifespan, delivering invaluable data from its Earth orbit.
However, the wear and tear of operating in the harsh environment of space has begun to manifest, particularly in its gyroscopes, crucial components for maintaining the telescope's orientation and pointing accuracy.
Originally equipped with six gyroscopes, Hubble now relies on only three. Recent malfunctions in one of these gyroscopes have repeatedly triggered the telescope's safe mode, a protective state that halts scientific observations. The issue involves the gyro falsely indicating a maximum slew rate, regardless of actual movement, a condition known as "saturation."
Despite multiple attempts to reset the gyro's electronics, the problem persisted, leading NASA to opt for a one-gyro mode. Mark Clampin, director of NASA's astrophysics division, believed this was the best approach to support Hubble's continued scientific operations for the foreseeable future.
One-gyro mode would allow consistent science operations while preserving another gyro for potential future use, Clampin explained in a recent press briefing about the Hubble's status.
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has temporarily halted its science operations due to an ongoing gyroscope issue.NASA/Getty Images
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has temporarily halted its science operations due to an ongoing gyroscope issue.
Operating with a single gyroscope will impact Hubble's agility. The telescope will require more time to move between targets and lock onto new ones, resulting in an estimated 12% reduction in weekly science observations.
Patrick Crouse, Hubble's project manager, acknowledged the limitations, stating, "Although Hubble can continue science operations in one-gyro mode, there are some limitations in comparison to our normal three-gyro settings."
The telescope will also lose some observational flexibility and the ability to track fast-moving objects closer than Mars, although such targets are infrequent for Hubble. Despite these constraints, the transition is deemed essential to ensure the continuation of Hubble's scientific missions.
The decision to adopt one-gyro mode follows a series of technical challenges, including a May 24 incident where faulty telemetry readings from a gyroscope triggered safe mode. This event was part of a pattern of issues dating back to November 2023.
NASA remains optimistic about Hubble's future, expecting to resume science operations by mid-June. Once in one-gyro mode, Hubble will continue its cosmic explorations alongside other space observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope and the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.
