That's a shame -- Hubble really extended our reach into and appreciation of the heavens...
I'm wondering if a long-term replacement scope could be launched and linked to the ISS in some fashion -- that way repairs could be done in the normal course of sending people to the space station.
as stated earlier in this thread, the NGST( Next Generation Space Telescope) is due to go to orbit in 2007. That is the replacement for Hubble.
In truth, I will mourn the end of Hubble. IT has opened the eyes of man to the beauty of the universe. But alas, it is time for it to retire.
Unlike a car or a plane or ever a shuttle, an orbital device like hubble is not repairable forever. It is subject to radiation, solar winds, micro metors, thousands of extreme heating and cooling cycles. all of this takes it toll on the equipment. And yes, while it is possible to fix hubble, it is also true that the money is better spent on the NGST.
As for those that feel we do not belong in space, then we do not belong anywhere. The one overwhelming passion of mankind is to look over the next ridge, to see what is over that hill, to find out what is on the other side of the ocean, to reach for the stars. Will we make it there? is it possible? who knows! will it cost lives adn money; YES! Is it all worth it? ask the settlers that crossed the great plains, the voyagers that crossed the atlantic, the men and women that set out to explore a world called Earth. I wouls suspect they would say it is well worth it.