The Telescope that Ate Space Science

Pajamas Media ^ | 8/29/2011 | Rand Simberg

[Errant]

It might make more sense to assemble it in orbit, say at the ISS, then launch it into place from there.

I'd suggest that you're right about assembly at the ISS. It could be done right there in ISS's hanger module. ;) Well if the ISS doesn't have a hanger module, we need to build one!

Surely the smart folks with the Webb Space Telescope program can figure a way to modularize the telescope to the point where it can be launched using existing cargo rockets.

We also need those space tugs we were promised back in the 50's to move telescopes/satellites/other instruments to higher orbits and back to the ISS for maintenance.

[Bean Counter]

I realize the ISS isn’t capable of what I suggested, and that’s part of the problem...un-coordinated and extremely expensive ventures like ISS that never came close to what was promised initially. For all of the money spent on ISS, it really is too bad that an instrument like Webb could not be assembled and prepared in orbit. You could have multiple launches that way and not have to commit to folding the entire telescope so it fits on one massive booster.

This is all speculation anyway. Like so many other things, do not look for any leadership out of the Regime on this...

[Errant]

NASA needs replacement; down to the paint on the walls.

With the right leadership and given free reigns by Congress, NASA is the answer for our exploration needs IMO. It certainly needs to have it's clock cleaned.

I don't believe commercial interests can provide the leadership or have an incentive to do exploration now. Though they certainly have an interest in providing the support needed.

We need a Werner Von Braun, Kelley Johnson, Gene Kranz...

[Errant]

This is all speculation anyway. Like so many other things, do not look for any leadership out of the Regime on this...

Sure, but you've got to start people talking and organizing and petitioning for change...

If not us, who? If not now, when? :)

[from occupied ga]

For as much money as they are spending on a one shot, highly risky mission like Webb, I would expect to see a full time manned observatory at L2, but that is such a fantasy it doesn’t merit serious discussion here....

It would make more sense to put 1/10 as much resource into very large adaptive optics ground based instruments.

[IbJensen]

The US is now somewhere behind Uzbekistan.

[sarge83]

NASA needs to radically reform or it’s going to die off as a serious space agency.

Cut the massive layers of bureaucracy, cut the politically correct BS, cut the continued sudden over runs in costs, get out of the scare business with the man-made global warming con and redefine your mission once mr. reach out to the muslims is sent home to Chicago with the Misses.

Otherwise they will go the way of the shuttles.

[Errant]

somewhere behind Uzbekistan

DAMN! LOL

[the_daug]

[Errant]

Oldie but goodie...

Part X-Wing Fighter, Part Space Tug, ESA’s ATV Readies for First Launch

[Errant]

Model of the Chinese Shenzhou spacecraft. Its design resembles the Russian Soyuz spacecraft, but it is larger in size and all-new in construction. Moreover, unlike the Soyuz, the orbital module of the Shenzhou is equipped with its own propulsion, solar power, and control systems, allowing autonomous flight. The first launch was on November 19, 1999 and the first manned launch was on October 15, 2003.

[Errant]

SpaceX Falcon 9

[HenpeckedCon]

“Stealing cash from other worthy scientific projects.”
Like what, “climate change?”

[Sawdring]

Just think, if there was a way to link the Webb telescope with the Hubble telescope, they could rename the new conglomerate the Webb Hubbel telescope, or “Chelsea Clinton’s father” for short.