NASA's Curious Universe
Inside the Team That Keeps Hubble Flying
Mar 14, 2025
Brian Welch, a NASA astronomer renowned for discovering Earendel, the most distant star ever observed, joins the conversation. He highlights the incredible 35-year journey of the Hubble Space Telescope, showcasing its iconic discoveries and groundbreaking legacy in astronomy. The discussion dives into the challenges faced by the operations team during critical moments, like troubleshooting the science computer. Welch also emphasizes Hubble's collaboration with the James Webb Space Telescope, revealing how both instruments push the boundaries of our cosmic understanding.
38:59
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Quick takeaways
- Hubble's longevity exemplifies the crucial role of teamwork and human ingenuity in overcoming technical challenges during its operations.
- The collaboration between Hubble and newer telescopes like James Webb enhances our understanding of the universe through varied observational capabilities.
Deep dives
The Legacy of Hubble Space Telescope
The Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, revolutionized our understanding of the universe by providing clear images free from the distortion of Earth's atmosphere. It was built on the premise of placing a powerful telescope in orbit to capture unprecedented astronomical data across various wavelengths. Over its 35 years, Hubble has delivered iconic images that have shaped modern astronomy and inspired generations, fostering a collective awe for the cosmos. Hubble's design and technological advancements allowed it to address the significant challenges of clarity and stability necessary for deep-space observation.
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