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American Astronomical Society Applauds HST Servicing Mission

Posted on: Friday, 3 November 2006, 15:00 CST

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Astronomical Society (AAS), the largest professional organization for research astronomers in the United States has released the following statement on the approval of a servicing mission for the Hubble Space Telescope.

Upon releasing the statement, President J. Craig Wheeler said, "We owe a debt of gratitude to Administrator Griffin for making this critical decision and to the astronauts, whose personal skills, training, and courage will get the job done."

On the Approval of a Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission

The American Astronomical Society applauds NASA Administrator Michael Griffin for approving the servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope.

By orbiting above the Earth's atmosphere, HST has the best site for astronomical observation and has used that unique advantage to uncover more about our Universe than any previous telescope. From planets in our Solar System to the furthest reaches of the Universe, HST has peered deeper and seen farther. Approving the use of the Space Shuttle to provide new instruments and repair aging equipment on the HST shows that NASA understands the value of scientific research to the public. We thank the Administrator and the talented astronauts who will perform this servicing mission. They will enhance this national resource and extend its life.

American Astronomical Society

CONTACT: Dr. Kevin B. Marvel, Executive Officer, +1-202-328-2010 x114,+1-703-589-7503, marvel@aas.org, Dr. J. Craig Wheeler, President,+1-512-471-6407, wheel@astro.as.utexas.edu, or Dr. Steve Maran, Press Officer,+1-202-328-2010 x116, pressofc@aas.org, all of The American AstronomicalSociety

Web site: http://www.aas.org/

Source: PRNewswire

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