The Hubble Space Telescope - 30 Years of Sciencebr br On 24 April 1990 the NASAESA Hubble Space Telescope was sent into orbit aboard the space shuttle Discovery, the first space telescope of its kind. It offered a new view of the Universe and has, for 30 years, reached and surpassed all expectations, beaming back data and images that have changed scientists’ understanding of the Universe and the public’s perception of it. Hubble’s discoveries have revolutionised nearly all areas of current astronomical research, from planetary science to cosmology, and its pictures are unmistakably out of this world.br br Let's make our own a little of this great wonder, desired by all but enjoyed by few.br br Creative Common License.