Hubble space telescope [2]

Telescope placed in orbit above Earth’s atmosphere (370 mi), making it possible to observe the universe as never before.

aperture door

Panel that opens and closes over the telescope’s optical system.

aft shroud

Part containing, in particular, a cooling system that protects the scientific instruments.

solar panel

Power supply device that converts solar energy into immediately usable electrical energy.

antenna

Conductor that transmits images to Earth by means of a communications satellite.

light shield

Prevents stray light from entering the telescope.

fine guidance system

Makes it possible to point and control the telescope with great precision.

secondary mirror

Mirror that sends light back toward the scientific instruments through a hole in the primary mirror.

primary mirror

Mirror that reflects the light of celestial bodies, directing it toward the secondary mirror.

scientific instruments

These include cameras, spectrographs and photometers.