Hail the Hubble: Experts Talk About the Iconic Telescope's 25 Years in Space

A Steamroller For Science

And what more could we ask of a telescope that has so easily paved the way for successors like the JWST and the GMT? A strong proponent for STEM fields, McCarthy says that he's most appreciative of Hubble not for its scientific value, but for its ability to inspire new generations of astronomers and explorers.

"Spectacular images have brought astronomy to the forefront of the public's imagination, and hopefully caused humanity to think a little more about its place in the Universe," he said.

McCarthy added that he and his colleagues working on the GMT now hope they can fill those very big shoes.

"We have a strong desire to share all our stories, our progress and our science with the world, and allow those who are interested to have access to what inspires them," he explained. "We look to the example that the HST has set, and hope to do at least as well."

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