American Astronomical Society Applauds HST Servicing Mission

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Astronomical Society
 (AAS), the largest professional organization for research astronomers in
 the United States has released the following statement on the approval of a
 servicing mission for the Hubble Space Telescope.
     Upon releasing the statement, President J. Craig Wheeler said, "We owe
 a debt of gratitude to Administrator Griffin for making this critical
 decision and to the astronauts, whose personal skills, training, and
 courage will get the job done."
     On the Approval of a Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission
     The American Astronomical Society applauds NASA Administrator Michael
 Griffin for approving the servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope.
     By orbiting above the Earth's atmosphere, HST has the best site for
 astronomical observation and has used that unique advantage to uncover more
 about our Universe than any previous telescope. From planets in our Solar
 System to the furthest reaches of the Universe, HST has peered deeper and
 seen farther. Approving the use of the Space Shuttle to provide new
 instruments and repair aging equipment on the HST shows that NASA
 understands the value of scientific research to the public. We thank the
 Administrator and the talented astronauts who will perform this servicing
 mission. They will enhance this national resource and extend its life.
 
 

SOURCE American Astronomical Society