Hubble space telescope current orbit
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Hubble Space Telescope Low Earth Orbit Details
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) has been operating in low Earth orbit since its launch in 1990. Its orbit was originally set at a circular altitude of about 610 kilometers (approximately 380 miles) above the Earth's surface, which allows it to avoid most of the atmospheric drag and provides a stable platform for astronomical observations 214. Over the years, Hubble has remained in this low Earth orbit, which is crucial for its ability to capture high-resolution images in the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared spectrum 14.
Orbital Characteristics and Operations
Hubble's orbit is non-geostationary, meaning it circles the Earth roughly every 95 minutes. This low Earth orbit exposes the telescope to the space environment, including radiation and occasional contamination, but also allows for regular servicing missions, which have extended its operational life and scientific capabilities . The telescope does not have its own propulsion system, so its altitude gradually decreases over time due to atmospheric drag, though this process is slow at its current altitude .
Implications of Hubble's Orbit
The low Earth orbit of Hubble is high enough to avoid most atmospheric interference, which is why it can achieve much sharper images than ground-based telescopes 14. However, this orbit also means that Hubble is occasionally affected by artificial satellites and space debris, which can interfere with its observations. Recent studies have shown that about 2.7% of Hubble's images are crossed by satellite trails, and this fraction is expected to increase as more satellites are launched into similar orbits .
Future of Hubble's Orbit
Without further intervention, Hubble's orbit will continue to decay slowly. Estimates suggest that, without a controlled de-orbit or reboost, Hubble could re-enter Earth's atmosphere around 2027, though this timeline could change depending on atmospheric conditions and potential future missions to extend its life . Plans and proposals exist for a safe de-orbit to minimize risks associated with its eventual re-entry .
Conclusion
The Hubble Space Telescope remains in low Earth orbit, currently at an altitude of about 610 kilometers. This orbit has enabled decades of groundbreaking astronomical research, but also presents challenges such as gradual orbital decay and increasing interference from other satellites. Continued monitoring and potential future missions will determine how long Hubble can remain operational in its current orbit 12469.
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