The launch of NASA’s “Roman” telescope will not halt the work of “Hubble”—it will be supported and even expanded.

Brief news summary

When? Where? Theme – planning the future use of the *Hubble* telescope to 2030 (first stage) and up to 2033 (possible extension). NASA, STScI, Goddard Space Flight Center

1. Why “Hubble” is still important
- Outdated observatories – new missions (*Webb*, *Roman*, etc.) are already operating, but their scientific capabilities differ from those provided by Hubble.
- Financial constraints – budget pressure forces scientists to reassess priorities for using the unique equipment of a veteran instrument.

2. What has changed in the coming years
Event Key moment Orbit drop expected in 2033, but solar activity accelerates this process. Possible “raise” of orbit requires planning and funding to begin already in fiscal year 2027.
- If the orbit can be raised, Hubble’s operational life could be extended until the end of its fifth decade.

3. What STScI is doing
1. Call to the scientific community
- Identify the most important tasks that can only be solved with Hubble over the next 10–15 years.
- Assess compatibility with other missions (e.g., *Webb* and *Roman*).

2. Technical requirements
- Required observing modes, calibration accuracy, and other operational parameters.

3. Preparation for “super‑Hubble” – Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO)
- How Hubble can help prepare for future large-scale programs.

4. What is expected from the scientific community
- Short proposals outlining observation plans and technical requirements.
- Submission deadline: May 22, 2026.

5. Conclusion
- Creation of a roadmap for Hubble’s scientific and operational tasks through the end of the 2030s.
- Guaranteed support for the telescope’s operation until 2033, with potential extension to the end of the decade.

Thus, despite the approaching end of the fourth decade, *Hubble* remains a critically important tool for astronomers. Planning its further use and possible extension already in 2027 opens new opportunities for space research.