NASA Seeks Private Solutions to Keep Hubble Orbiting Past 2033

NASA is racing against time to keep the Hubble Space Telescope aloft after more than 35 years of discoveries. The observatory is gradually losing altitude, and without action it could re‑enter Earth’s atmosphere as early as 2033 or 2034. To prevent this, the agency is inviting private space companies to submit proposals that could boost Hubble into a higher orbit, upgrade its instruments, or safely dispose of the telescope when its mission ends. The plans would preserve Hubble’s scientific legacy and avoid the costs and risks of a uncontrolled re‑entry. The deadline for proposals is approaching, and the outcome will determine whether the iconic observatory remains a working asset or becomes a controlled decommissioned satellite.