What's New in Aerospace Tools of the EVA Trade used by NASA Astronauts during Space Walks | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

The Hubble Space Telescope has undergone several servicing missions aimed at repairing and upgrading its instruments to ensure optimal performance.

Key Insights

• 👻 The Hubble Space Telescope was designed to be serviced by astronauts, allowing for repairs, upgrades, and maintenance.
• 👾 Specialized tools and techniques were developed to overcome the challenges of working in microgravity and limited space.
• 👻 The servicing missions were crucial in keeping the Hubble operational and allowing it to make groundbreaking discoveries.

Transcript

GOOD AFTERNOON. WELCOME TO THE SPACE MUSEUM. I AM JENNIFER. CURATOR HERE FOR A RECENT EXHIBIT THAT WE FEATURED ON SPACE WALKING. I WANT TO WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO OUR AEROSPACE PROGRAM. EVA TOOLS OF THE TRADE. I WANT TO GIVE THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS FOR THE PROGRAM TODAY BOEING. I WANT TO REMIND YOU AT HOME THAT YOU'LL BE ABLE TO SUBMIT QUESTIONS O... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What were some of the challenges faced during the Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions?

One of the challenges was working in microgravity and maintaining control over loose hardware. Specialized tools and techniques were developed to ensure the safety and success of the missions.

Q: How did the astronauts train for the servicing missions?

The astronauts received extensive training at facilities such as the Neutral Buoyancy Lab and the Goddard Space Flight Center. They practiced using the tools and performing the tasks underwater to simulate the conditions in space.

Q: What were some of the key upgrades made to the Hubble Space Telescope during the servicing missions?

Upgrades included replacing instruments such as the COSTAR and ACS, improving the solar panels, and installing new cameras and spectrographs. These upgrades allowed the telescope to continue making groundbreaking discoveries.

Q: What is the future of servicing missions for the Hubble Space Telescope?

Servicing missions are no longer planned for the Hubble Space Telescope, as the James Webb Space Telescope is set to replace it in the next few years. However, the Hubble will continue to operate and provide valuable scientific data until the end of its mission.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Hubble Space Telescope was designed to be serviced by astronauts, with unique fixtures and features that allow for repairs and upgrades.

• Servicing missions involved replacing faulty instruments, adding new capabilities, and improving the telescope's overall performance.

• Specialized tools such as the mini power tool and fastener capture plate were developed to make the servicing missions more efficient and effective.