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Today in History: Hubble Space Telescope launched aboard Space Shuttle Discovery

4/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 24, 1990, NASA's Space Shuttle Discovery launched the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) into low Earth orbit during the STS-31 mission. Named after astronomer Edwin Hubble, the telescope has since become a crucial tool for astronomical research and public engagement, significantly advancing our understanding of the universe.

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Story summary

On April 24, 1990, NASA's Space Shuttle Discovery launched the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) into low Earth orbit during the STS-31 mission. Named after astronomer Edwin Hubble, the telescope has since become a crucial tool for astronomical research and public engagement, significantly advancing our understanding of the universe.