NASA Hubble Space Telescope is still malfunctioning, and the organization continues its diagnosis. On the other hand, NASA discovered a new type of supernova.
NASA is still looking into the reason behind the Hubble Space Telescope's payload computer malfunctioned, forcing the telescope to switch into safe mode for multiple weeks.
NASA Hubble Space Telescope
Ars Technica reported that NASA, a US space agency, is doing everything to push through with the investigation. The agency is taking additional diagnostic steps, preparing test procedures for Hubble Space Telescope's backup hardware.
On the other hand, NASA Hubble Space Telescope remains in premium conditions, and it is still sending breathtaking photos of celestial bodies, phenomena, and sightings within our galaxy.
NASA to Check Hubble Space Telescope's Hardware for Possible Defects
According to iTech Post, NASA's Hubble team investigates the CU/SDF or Command Unit/Science Data Formatter of the Hubble. It is responsible for sending and formatting commands and data.
In addition, the CU/SDF also scrutinizes a sophisticated power regulator within the Power Control Unit. If it is proven to be the reason for the payload computer's malfunction, NASA's Hubble team would have to do more complicated procedures to turn to the backup units.
It is a complex procedure that poses more risk than what the team previously did.
Switching into CU/SDF's backup or power regulator or any other hardware units within the telescope requires changing to maintain a connection with the SI C&DH.
iTech Post confirmed that the Hubble team would continue evaluating the operations commands, procedures, and other related elements required to execute the switch.
Upon finishing the review, they will start testing the execution that will go up against a high-fidelity simulator.
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NASA Hubble Space Telescope Discovers New Supernova Variant
Despite being on safe mode, NASA Hubble Space Telescope continues to capture astonishing photos of the galaxy, helping astronomers discover a brand new form of exploding star.
NASA confirmed that an electron-capture supernova was discovered by the Hubble, confirming astronomer Kenichi Nomoto's prediction over 40 years ago. Nomoto believed that the third type of supernova exists and could provide us with insights into stars' life and death.
Before discovering the electron-capture supernova, there were only two types of supernovas.
First is the core collapse supernova, which occurs whenever a massive star runs out of fuel energy. Its body begins to collapse into a gigantic black hole - a neutron star. Next is the thermonuclear supernova. It typically happens whenever a white dwarf star explodes.
With the discovery of the electron-capture supernova, iTech Post believes gravity forces electrons to go out from the star's core, traveling into their specific atomic nuclei.
As the core continues to run out of fuel, the star will collapse on itself.
NASA also saw several unusual stellar images that could prove the existence of a new supernova. It is referred to as a "rock spectra," and it could confirm that supernova SN2018zd is indeed an electron-capture supernova.
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Written by Fran Sanders
