Saving the Hubble Space Telescope

The Hubble Space Telescope continues to reveal the wonders of our universe. Its images are so crystal-clear and breath-taking that few would believe that it was shot into space almost blind. It was only after the Hubble reached earth orbit that scientists and technicians discovered an unknown flaw in the telescope lens that would limit its vision to fuzzy, “muddy” images.

For several months after first discovering the problem, scientists considered three possible solutions. One was to build and launch a new telescope. This would cost millions of dollars and delay any deep space study for several years. A second solution was to build a super computer that could clear up the pictures the current Hubble sent to earth. However, even the most powerful computer would have to "guess" several parts of an enhanced picture because the flaw in the original lens would be unable to transmit enough useful information. A third solution was to build and install a corrective "contact lens" for the Hubble, much as doctors make for humans with vision problems. This corrective lens could be delivered by the space shuttle and installed by astronauts.