Hubble Supernova Discovery: WOW BEAUTIFUL

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the Hubble Space Telescope's discovery of a supernova, highlighting its visual impact and the implications of potentially losing the telescope. Participants express admiration for the imagery and discuss the future of astronomical observations without Hubble.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express awe at the beauty of the supernova imagery captured by Hubble.
  • There are humorous suggestions about the supernova being a cosmic commentary on popular culture, specifically referencing the LOTR trilogy.
  • Concerns are raised about the future of astronomical observations if Hubble is retired, with some participants noting the potential loss of unique imaging capabilities.
  • One participant mentions ongoing efforts by Senator Mikulski to keep Hubble operational, indicating a glimmer of hope among some astronomers.
  • There is a suggestion that amateur astronomers could play a role in discovering future supernovae, but the loss of Hubble would hinder the ability to capture significant images and understand cosmic events.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the beauty and significance of the supernova discovery, but there is uncertainty regarding the future of the Hubble Space Telescope and differing opinions on its potential retirement.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying degrees of optimism and pessimism about Hubble's future, with some relying on political advocacy while others remain skeptical about its continuation. The discussion includes speculative ideas about the role of amateur astronomers in future discoveries.

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It is really going to be a shame when we lose the Hubble.
 
Originally posted by Evo
It is really going to be a shame when we lose the Hubble.
Keep your fingers crossed. We may not loose it after all. Senator Mikulski from Maryland is pushing to keep it going. It probably won't do any good, but some astronomers are still hopeful...

http://www.cnn.com/2004/TECH/space/03/10/cancel.hubble/index.html
 
Here's the Hubble website with more background to this.

What's really cool is that amateur astronomers could discover the next Milky way supernova (or LMC, or SMC, or Andromeda/M31, or any other Local Group galaxy one), but without Hubble we'd lose the ability to take piccies like these, and also lose the chance to understand about a possible grim reaper.
 

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