Hubble telescope celebrates 25 years of mind-blowing imagery

Posted: April 11, 2015 at 7:51 am

NASA celebrates 25 years of discovery and beautiful imagery with the Hubble Space Telescope this month.

Although Hubble was launched from Space Shuttle Discovery in 1990 the telescope did not produce any images until 1995, because the large mirrors were put on incorrectly. A series of space-walks were conducted by astronauts to fix the mirrors and get Hubble back in business.

Since 1995, when the first image from Hubble was transmitted to Earth, the telescope has inspired generations of space enthusiasts with the stellar images of supernovas, nebulae, galaxies and planets.

Hubble has made more than 1 million observations since its mission began. The school-bus sized telescope can see more than 13.4 billion light years from Earth, making it one of the most productive scientific instruments in history.

Hubbles images have inspired symphony orchestra compositions, spotted galaxies thatshouldnt exist and made some of the greatest discoveries in astronomy.

NASA released a special collection of images from Hubbles portfolio and will host events around the world leading up to the anniversary on April 24, and many allow online participation. See a full list of events here.

At Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex, there will be three days of commemorative events from April 24-26 including a projection mapping show with 200 Hubble images, photo gallery of large-scale images, hands-on activity stations, the Hubble 3D IMAX movie and presentations from NASA scientists, astronomers, astrophysicists and astronauts. These activities are included in admission to the complex, but guests can opt to pay more for a special event on April 24 from 4-11 p.m., the Hubble After Hours Adventure for $85.

That price includes two-day admission to the complex, opportunity to see the launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket slated for April 24, a stargazing event, laser astronomy tour of the night sky, a Q&A session with NASA astronaut and astro-geophysicist Dr. Sam Durrance, buffet dinner, snack and commemorative T-shirt and glow stick. Details on KSC's events can be found here.

Take a look at the Hubble Telescope 25th anniversary gallery above and prepare to be amazed.

Visit link:
Hubble telescope celebrates 25 years of mind-blowing imagery

Related Posts