Reviving the Hubble Space Telescope: NASA's Latest Triumph
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Chapter 1: The Hubble's Setback
It has been over a month since the Hubble Space Telescope entered safe mode due to a suspected memory failure. NASA tried standard reset procedures, including powering the telescope off and on, but the aging observatory remained unresponsive. Upon further investigation, NASA identified the problem as stemming from a power component within the Science Instrument Command and Data Handling (SI C&DH) module. On July 15, the agency announced that they would initiate a switch to the backup data handling module, a process expected to take several days. Fortunately, NASA has now confirmed that Hubble is back in operation today.
The troubles began on July 13 when the payload computer of Hubble ceased functioning. This system operates independently from the spacecraft's main computer, allowing NASA to maintain communication. However, the payload computer is crucial as it manages and coordinates the scientific instruments aboard Hubble. Its failure resulted in the main computer putting the telescope into safe mode, and for a month, there were no significant changes.
Initially, NASA engineers suspected that the issue was linked to the memory modules of the payload computer. Attempts to replace one of the four spare memory chips were unsuccessful. As the investigation progressed, NASA concluded that the problem likely resides at a higher level. The payload computer is part of the SI C&DH unit, which astronauts replaced during Hubble's last servicing mission in 2009. The analysis from recent weeks led NASA to believe that the root cause is related to the Power Control Unit (PCU) on the SI C&DH. Unfortunately, attempts to reset the PSU from the ground proved ineffective.
Section 1.1: The Backup Plan
Given the high cost of space hardware, Hubble was engineered with several redundancies. The SI C&DH system features a dual-sided computer, prompting NASA to switch to the backup side. This alternate system has its own components that are not connected to those experiencing issues. NASA successfully activated the backup system and loaded it with the necessary flight software. Other components were also rerouted to connect with the backup payload computer. So far, the transition is proceeding smoothly, and the team anticipates recovering all instruments from safe mode shortly. Following this, calibration will be required before Hubble can resume its scientific operations.
NASA has increasingly depended on backup systems to keep the telescope functioning in recent years, but options are running low. After three decades of service, Hubble is approaching the end of its operational life. It has already exceeded expectations, and if circumstances allow, it may operate alongside the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope, which is set to launch by the end of 2021, barring any unforeseen delays.
The first video titled "Rescuing The Hubble Space Telescope - with Kathryn D. Sullivan" provides insights into the challenges faced during the Hubble's repair process.
The second video, "The View From Space: Repairing the Hubble Space Telescope," offers a fascinating look at the intricate repair efforts and the significance of the Hubble's work.
Note: This article has been updated with the latest information from NASA.