Hubble Telescope: What's the Big Flap/Door?

AI Thread Summary
The big flap or door on the Hubble Telescope is known as the aperture door. Its primary function is to close and protect the telescope's optics from sunlight when not in use. This mechanism ensures that the sensitive instruments remain safe from potential damage. Understanding this component is crucial for comprehending Hubble's operational integrity. The discussion highlights the importance of the aperture door in maintaining the telescope's performance.
clel miller
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I did a cursory search on the forum, and I browsed Wiki...but maybe I missed it.
What is that big Flap/Door on the end of the scope.?
Is it part of the optics, or is it a protection device, or a...?
Thank You
 
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It's the aperture door. It closes to protect the optics from sunlight.

Read more here:
asd.gsfc.nasa.gov/archive/sm3a/downloads/sm3a_media_guide/HST-systems.pdf
 
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