Rescuing Hubble Space Telescope: Enter Momentus and Astroscale
The Hubble Space Telescope might be falling into a dangerous low-Earth orbit.
Astroscale, a Tokyo-based startup, and Momentus Space, a California-based company, have devised a joint plan to rescue Hubble.
The plan involves launching a non-crewed rocket with a water-propelled 'space tug' thruster to pull Hubble up by 31 miles and clear any space debris.
Momentus and Astroscale specialize in space infrastructure and orbital debris, making them well-suited for collaborating on this mission.
To prevent Hubble from reentering Earth's atmosphere in the mid-2030s, its altitude needs to be raised to counter atmospheric drag.
NASA issued a Request for Information (RFI) to explore potential solutions from commercial vendors to save the aging telescope.
Momentus and Astroscale have expressed their willingness to collaborate on a future servicing mission for Hubble, including orbit realignment and debris removal.
The potential solution involves launching an orbital service vehicle built by Momentus and incorporating Astroscale's components.
The fate of Hubble hangs in the balance as stakeholders evaluate the best course of action to ensure its continued scientific contributions.
All Image: Google.com
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