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Hubble Space Telescope: A Beginner's Guide

The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is one of the most iconic and powerful tools in the history of astronomy. Launched into low Earth orbit in 1990, Hubble has provided humanity with breathtaking images of the universe and groundbreaking scientific discoveries. This article will introduce you to the basics of the Hubble Space Telescope, its history, how it works, and its contributions to science.

History of the Hubble Space Telescope

The Hubble Space Telescope was named after the American astronomer Edwin Hubble, who made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe. The telescope was launched on April 24, 1990, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. Despite initial setbacks, such as a flaw in its primary mirror, Hubble was repaired and upgraded by astronauts during several servicing missions, making it one of the most successful space observatories in history.

Key milestones in Hubble's history include:

**1990**: Launch and deployment by the Space Shuttle Discovery.
**1993**: First servicing mission to correct the mirror flaw.
**1995**: Captured the famous "Pillars of Creation" image in the Eagle Nebula.
**2009**: Final servicing mission, extending Hubble's operational life.

How Does the Hubble Space Telescope Work?

Hubble orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 547 kilometers (340 miles), completing an orbit every 95 minutes. Unlike ground-based telescopes, Hubble is above Earth's atmosphere, which distorts and blocks light. This allows Hubble to capture incredibly sharp and clear images of distant galaxies, nebulae, and other celestial objects.

Hubble's key components include:

**Primary Mirror**: A 2.4-meter (7.9-foot) mirror that collects light from distant objects.
**Instruments**: A suite of scientific instruments, including cameras and spectrographs, to analyze light.
**Solar Panels**: Provide power to the telescope.
**Gyroscopes**: Help stabilize and point the telescope with precision.

Scientific Contributions of Hubble

Hubble has revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Some of its most significant contributions include:

**Determining the Rate of Expansion of the Universe**: Hubble's observations helped astronomers calculate the Hubble Constant, which measures how fast the universe is expanding.
**Discovering Exoplanets**: Hubble has identified and studied planets outside our solar system.
**Observing Distant Galaxies**: Hubble's deep field images reveal galaxies billions of light-years away, providing insights into the early universe.
**Studying Black Holes**: Hubble has provided evidence of supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies.

Why Hubble Matters for Beginners

For beginners interested in astronomy or space exploration, Hubble serves as a gateway to understanding the cosmos. Its stunning images inspire curiosity and wonder, while its scientific discoveries highlight the importance of space exploration. Whether you're a budding astronomer or simply fascinated by the universe, Hubble's legacy is a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for knowledge.

How to Get Involved

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Hubble Space Telescope

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