NASA's Hubble telescope enters safe mode due to gyro issue

On November 23, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope entered safe mode due to an ongoing gyroscope (gyro) issue. The telescope and its instruments are healthy and the operations team is working to resume its science operations, the agency said on Wednesday.

According to NASA, Hubble automatically went into safe mode when one of its three gyroscopes gave faulty readings. While in safe mode, science operations are suspended, and the telescope waits for new directions from the ground.

The issue started on November 19, when Hubble entered safe mode and resumed operations the following day. On November 21, the unstable gyro caused the observatory to suspend science operations again. Following a successful recovery, Hubble went into safe mode again on November 23.

NASA is working to resume science operations of the Hubble Space Telescope after it entered safe mode Nov. 23 due to an ongoing gyroscope issue. Hubble's instruments are stable, and the telescope is in good health: https://t.co/QOdJJ9WjYh pic.twitter.com/URRHYV3Le8

— Hubble (@NASAHubble) November 29, 2023

The operations team is currently conducting tests to understand and address the issue. If necessary, the spacecraft can be reconfigured to function with just one gyro. The Hubble telescope underwent its fifth and final space shuttle servicing mission in 2009, during which six new gyros were installed. As of now, three gyros remain operational, including the one currently experiencing fluctuations. While the telescope optimally utilizes three gyros for efficiency, it can carry out scientific observations with only one gyro if needed.

Launched in 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope has revolutionized our understanding of the Universe by providing stunning images and valuable data.