The Hubble Space Telescope future hangs in the balance as the iconic observatory marks 35 years in orbit on April 24. Though still performing well, Hubble faces questions about how much longer it will remain active.
Since its 1990 launch, Hubble has offered some of the most stunning views of the cosmos. Orbiting just above Earth, it has become one of NASA’s most successful and beloved missions. Its images of distant galaxies, nebulae, and deep-space regions continue to captivate scientists and the public.
However, this celebration comes during a time of budget uncertainty. The Trump administration’s proposed federal cuts have already affected various science programs, and NASA is no exception.
In January, SpaceNews reported that NASA asked the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) to prepare for reduced Hubble budgets. For fiscal years 2026 through 2028, funding could drop to between $83 million and $87.8 million annually. That’s over 20% lower than current levels. Julia Roman-Duval, interim head of Hubble operations at STScI, said the institute is trimming costs where possible. Outreach efforts may face reductions, but scientific work will continue as a priority.
Meanwhile, Ars Technica revealed internal government documents suggesting deeper cuts. These include a two-thirds cut to astrophysics, along with major reductions to heliophysics, Earth science, and planetary science. The documents also propose ending support for most future telescope projects, including the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope.
The documents suggest that only Hubble and the James Webb Space Telescope will continue receiving support. However, they also point to a much bigger threat—the potential shutdown of the Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. Goddard currently supports both Hubble and JWST. It employs roughly 10,000 people, making it NASA’s largest center.
Casey Dreier, a policy expert at The Planetary Society, called the potential closure devastating. “It’s like a nuclear bomb going off,” he told Space.com. Dreier believes the proposal is likely to move forward, given recent government decisions to cut key science and diversity programs.
Although Hubble is aging, it remains operational. Engineers recently solved a few gyroscope issues, allowing the telescope to continue its mission without significant setbacks. For now, its instruments are still delivering valuable data.
Private astronaut Jared Isaacman, now nominated to lead NASA, has proposed servicing Hubble again. While the idea could extend its lifespan into the 2040s, many experts view it as risky and expensive. A new mission would require updated equipment and careful planning. Currently, NASA sees no urgent need to intervene.
Realistically, Hubble may only last into the early 2030s. Even that outcome depends on funding and technical stability. Any future plan must consider political priorities and public support.
Despite the uncertainty, Hubble continues to provide an unmatched view of the universe. As we mark its 35th anniversary, it’s the perfect time to revisit its most famous contributions. These include the Pillars of Creation, the Ultra Deep Field, and countless other cosmic treasures.
For now, we still have Hubble. Let’s appreciate it while we can—by exploring its legacy, marveling at its discoveries, and keeping hope alive for a future where space science continues to inspire.
