Hubble may get extension

NASA may continue operating the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) beyond its planned retirement date of 2010. The next-generation Webb Space Telescope is due for launch in 2011, but faces potential delays, and a NASA panel is reviewing extended HST operations.

The fifth Shuttle HST servicing flight will be put back until at least late 2005 because of the Columbia accident. A mission to return the HST for display at the US National Air and Space Museum has been considered.

Source: Flight International