NASA's Hubble Space Telescope Suffers Gyroscope Issue Enters Safe Mode

NASA has confirmed that the Hubble Space Telescope entered safe mode on May 24, 2024, due to an issue with one of its gyroscopes. This precautionary measure has temporarily suspended all science operations, although NASA has assured that Hubble’s instruments remain stable and the telescope itself is in good health.

The safe mode was triggered automatically when one of Hubble’s three active gyroscopes began providing faulty telemetry readings. These gyroscopes are critical components of the telescope's navigational system, responsible for measuring its slew rates and ensuring precise control over its pointing direction. This function is essential for capturing the high-resolution images and data that have made Hubble an invaluable tool for astronomers worldwide.

NASA has indicated that further updates on the situation will be provided in the early part of the first week of June.

Engineers and mission specialists are currently assessing the issue and formulating a plan to restore Hubble to its full operational capacity.

Despite this recent setback, NASA remains optimistic about Hubble’s future. The agency anticipates that the telescope will continue to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries throughout the remainder of this decade and potentially into the next. Hubble’s continued operation is expected to complement the work of other advanced observatories, such as NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, creating a powerful synergy that will benefit the scientific community and humanity as a whole.

Launched in 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope has been observing the universe for over thirty years, recently celebrating its 34th anniversary. During its long tenure, Hubble has made numerous significant contributions to our understanding of the cosmos.