The microscope and telescope are two of the most potent symbols of science. The most important factors in a telescope are the aperture, (or light gathering capability), and the quality and accuracy of their optics. The major design criteria for a new telescope are portability and low cost. What type of telescope are you interested in? Among the many kinds of telescope, the reflecting and refracting telescope are two of the most popular. And, aperture and quality in a telescope are worth much more than power any day. Be sure and spend some time looking around and talking to other star gazers to get some ideas of what would suit you. Most observers would be happy to advise you. For more information please go to .

Maybe something like a Hubble Space model would suit you? Maybe you can make a deal on a slightly used version? Well, maybe not, but here are some interesting facts about the Hubble.

The Hubble Space Telescope has dazzled us with its astonishing images and discoveries. The Hubble Space Telescope has taken about 750,000 images in is 16+ years in space. It was deployed on April 25, 1990, and is actually a giant observatory aboard a spacecraft. Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope are at the dawn of a new era in exploring the universe as it whirls around Earth at a speed of 5 miles per second.

Hubble's images are processed by the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI). The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) was the first and flagship mission of NASA's Great Observatories program. It truly is a national asset. But, there have been issues: he Hubble Space Telescope was placed in orbit in April 1990 and in June that year scientists discovered a problem with its primary mirror. That problem was soon fixed but Hubble has had numerous problems throughout its life.

But the Hubble Space Telescope, which opened Earth's eyes to an awe-inspiring universe of star births and colliding galaxies, is far from being in the junk pile. In fact, it has gotten several extensions on its warranty. NASA has sent various missions to the Telescope to conduct repairs and upgrades. And, future improvements to the Hubble Space Telescope are in the works.

Although the Hubble Space Telescope has been operating continuously since 1990, there are plans in the works to replace it. It has given astronomers and amateurs alike a multitude of thrills in its life, and more are on the way. But, like all good things, it's life will end. But fear not...something better is on the way.

We hope sooner rather than later.