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Upgrade Will Boost Hubble Vision

Upgrade will create spectacular images

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 7, 2008 2:10 AM CDT

(Newser) – Spectacular images from the Hubble telescope are about to get even more awe-inspiring, thanks to a $900-million upgrade during an upcoming space shuttle mission—the fifth and last mission to the orbiting observatory. Two new high-tech instruments and a series of repairs will make Hubble able to probe even deeper into space and see farther back into time for its last 5 or 6 years in operation, reports the Washington Post.

 "We will have the most powerful imaging capability on Hubble ever—and possibly anywhere," said a Hubble senior scientist. Another scientist called the mammoth telescope the "most productive in history." The first data and images from the improved Hubble are expected by early next year.

A portion of the Carina Nebula sen from the Hubble space telescope. An upcoming upgrade and new instruments will make the Hubble even more effective.
A portion of the Carina Nebula sen from the Hubble space telescope. An upcoming upgrade and new instruments will make the Hubble even more effective.   (AP Photo)
The Hubble Space Telescope in flight. An upgrade and new instruments will make it capable of more spectacular images than ever.
The Hubble Space Telescope in flight. An upgrade and new instruments will make it capable of more spectacular images than ever.   (Getty Images)
A supernova remnant called Cassiopeia A, seen by the Hubble telescope. An upcoming upgrade will give the Hubble power to produce even more spectacular images.
A supernova remnant called Cassiopeia A, seen by the Hubble telescope. An upcoming upgrade will give the Hubble power to produce even more spectacular images.   (AP Photo)
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