Tom Elmer's RanTom Thoughts

2004-07-14 11:20 - DL Updates / Hubble Update

Some site updates here. I fixed the older entries page. Enjoy. Added a new update to the NASA / hubble thing. Also added a login link in the sidebar. Stay tuned for a rant on Yahoo! in the next couple of days.

NASA /Hubble 2004.07.14 update: In yet another oscillation, the Committee on the Assessment of Options for Extending the Life of the Hubble Space Telescope has released a report recommending that NASA keep the shuttle servicing mission available as an option since the robotic technology is too young. Come on people! We need to present a united front or the thing will be DESTROYED!

Response:
Glenn Mahone/Bob Jacobs
July 13, 2004
NASA ADMINISTRATOR SUPPORTS EFFORTS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMIES ON BEHALF OF HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE
The following is a statement from Administrator Sean O'Keefe regarding today's release of an interim report from the Committee on the Assessment of Options for Extending the Life of the Hubble Space Telescope from The National Academies in Washington.

"I deeply appreciate the timely efforts of Committee Chair Louis Lanzerotti and the other distinguished members of the National Academies committee. Their thoughtful diligence in preparing this interim report will inform the ongoing discussion and help reach a definitive resolution in our efforts to extend Hubble's service life. "We agree with the Committee's view that the Hubble Space Telescope is arguably the most important telescope in history. NASA is committed to exploring ways to safely extend the useful scientific life of Hubble. "The challenges of a robotic mission are under examination and we'll continue our exhaustive and aggressive efforts to assess innovative servicing options. In parallel with the Committee's ongoing research and deliberations, NASA will evaluate proposals we expect to receive shortly. Along the way, we'll keep options open to assure the best possible outcome. "I look forward to receiving the Committee's final report. The Hubble Space Telescope is a national treasure. Just as we are committed to meeting the recommendations and findings of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board and returning the Space Shuttle to safe flight, we're committed to doing everything possible to safely extend the scientific life of this valuable asset."

On a related note, the DART (Demonstration for Autonomous Rendezvous Technology) vehicle arrived at Vandenberg AFB today to get ready for its fall launch.