Brief
NASA seeks commercial ideas to service or boost Hubble Telescope
The agency opened a 32‑day RFI for proposals to extend Hubble’s life or manage its end‑of‑mission disposal.
By Felo News Desk · Published
NASA announced on Oct. 29 that it is accepting commercial proposals to either raise the Hubble Space Telescope to a higher orbit, perform on‑orbit servicing, or conduct a controlled re‑entry, according to a NASA release.
What happened
The Request for Information (RFI) asks industry to outline capabilities for in‑space servicing of Hubble, which lacks its own propulsion and is projected to re‑enter Earth’s atmosphere between 2033 and 2034. NASA expects any boost mission to occur by 2032 and to raise the telescope to at least 600 km (373 mi) altitude, which could add roughly 25 years of operational life.
What the reports add
The RFI lists three possible mission types: a boost to a higher orbit, on‑orbit enhancements to Hubble’s instruments, or a safe, controlled de‑orbit or disposal at end‑of‑life. Responses are due by 3 p.m. EST on Nov. 30.
What was said
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said, “Hubble still has important science ahead of it, and we should be looking at every reasonable opportunity to keep it delivering for as long as possible,” as reported by NASA. Associate Administrator Nicky Fox added, “Commercial industry has rapidly evolved … we are eager to explore the breadth of possibilities to boost Hubble to a higher orbit while we develop the flagship mission to follow.”
How it came about
Hubble’s altitude has been gradually decreasing due to atmospheric drag, and without propulsion it cannot maintain orbit. The agency’s request follows ongoing discussions about extending the telescope’s service life while planning for its eventual replacement.
Key facts
- NASA issued an RFI on Oct. 29 seeking commercial proposals to boost, service, or de‑orbit Hubble. (nasa.gov)
- The RFI requires proposals to raise Hubble to at least 600 km altitude or outline safe disposal. (nasa.gov)
- Responses are due by 3 p.m. EST on Nov. 30, 2026. (nasa.gov)
- NASA predicts Hubble could re‑enter between 2033 and 2034 without intervention. (nasa.gov)
Sources
- [1] nasa.gov — originally reported as “NASA Explores Potential Commercial Servicing for Hubble Telescope”
