NASA Seeks Industry Ideas for Hubble Space Telescope Servicing

NASA is asking industry to outline in-space servicing capabilities for the Hubble Space Telescope, including options that could extend its mission or improve its capabilities. The request also seeks ideas for end-of-mission approaches.

Key details

• NASA issued the request on October 29, 2026.
• Options include raising Hubble’s orbit, enhancing its capabilities, controlled reentry, or orbital disposal.
• NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said in an October 30 statement that the agency should assess reasonable options for continuing Hubble’s operations, citing the telescope’s scientific output and potential cost savings.
• Atmospheric drag is lowering Hubble’s orbit. NASA estimates the telescope could reenter in 2033 or 2034 without intervention, while a servicing effort would need to take place by 2032.
• Hubble launched in April 1990 in partnership with the European Space Agency and has received five astronaut servicing missions. The most recent took place in 2009.

NASA estimates Hubble could reenter Earth’s atmosphere in 2033 or 2034 without intervention.

Why it matters

Hubble has operated for more than three decades and has received five astronaut servicing missions. The request could help NASA assess how commercial in-space capabilities might support the telescope’s mission.