Hidden Nook

The move to use robots to service the Hubble Space Telescope rather than spacewalking astronauts remains controversial.

Outgoing NASA Administrator, Sean O’Keefe, has been steadfast in his decision not to risk astronaut lives conducting such a mission. O’Keefe cancelled Hubble servicing via space shuttle attendants following the loss of shuttle Columbia and crew in early 2003.

However, a study performed by a special blue ribbon panel of the U.S. National Research Council recommended to NASA last month that the space agency should scrap plans to service the orbiting telescope robotically. The study group advised that a space shuttle crew could perform the work and doing so was the best option available.

Dan Friedmann, President and Chief Executive Officer of MDA, explained in a statement: “The Hubble mission and our strategic participation in other space missions will demonstrate that robots can cost-effectively complete complex tasks in space, while working together with astronauts on the ground.”

A statement from Canadian Space Agency (CSA) explains that a successful robotic servicing mission could prolong Hubble’s life expectancy well beyond 2010. Without such a mission, the space observatory could fail as soon as 2007.

“Through the Government of Canada’s long-standing commitment and vision, we have earned a reputation for leadership and innovation in space robotics, an expertise that is second to none,” added Marc Garneau, President of the CSA. “NASA’s recognition of the expertise of MDA is a source of pride for all Canadians,” he concluded.