We Live Science
The veteran of four space missions discusses challenges faced by the Hubble Space Telescope and how human ingenuity and teamwork made Hubble’s success possible
20 Nov 2024
Kathryn Thornton, a renowned astronaut and physicist, recounts the groundbreaking journey of the first servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope in 1993. Her talk dives into the critical challenges faced by Hubble after its launch in 1990, particularly its inability to focus due to a flaw in its primary mirror. She highlights the remarkable ingenuity of the scientists and engineers who devised a solution for the flaw.
As one of NASA’s four Great Observatories that allow us to explore the universe across the electromagnetic spectrum, Hubble been instrumental in expanding our understanding of the universe. The historic repair mission not only restored Hubble’s capabilities, but also set a new standard for in-orbit servicing missions and paved the way for future explorations of the universe’s deepest mysteries.
ESET’s commitment to promoting scientific innovation and progress is seen in its ongoing efforts to foster a deep appreciation for science, celebrate the power of groundbreaking research, and connect with leading thinkers in technology and science. ESET recently partnered with Starmus, the global science communication festival, and brought its 7th edition to Bratislava, Slovakia, in May 2024.Â
The festival featured a number of thought-provoking perspectives from some of the planet’s foremost thinkers. You can now relive the experience from the comfort of your home and get a taste of how the power of technology is being harnessed to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today.