Timeline

The following is an approximate timeline for the major events throughout the mission. EVA is an acronym for Extra-vehicular activities.

This document shows the times projected before the mission was executed, not the times they were actually carried out, but is maintained for historic interest.

Day 1
Launch 20:01 CEST 11 May

The Shuttle will carry a full crew of seven astronauts, including several veterans. Once in orbit, the team will check the Shuttle's robotic arm in preparation for the capture of Hubble.

Launch date set for fifth Hubble Servicing Mission

Day 2 & 3
12 and 13 May 2009

As the Shuttle continues to close-in on Hubble, the crew will perform tasks to ensure there was no damage during launch. The astronauts will begin their preparations by checking various elements such as the airlocks and spacesuits. Finally, the Shuttle will rendezvous with Hubble and capture it via the robotic arm (starts on 13 May 2009 at 13:41 CEST).

Approaching HST

Day 4
EVA1 begins at 14:16 CEST 14 May 2009

The first EVA will see the installation of the new WFC3 camera in the slot currently occupied by WFPC2. In addition, the first set of upgraded batteries will be installed.

WFC3

Day 5
EVA2 begins at 14:16 CEST 15 May 2009

Three Rate Sensor Units (RSU) housing six gyroscopes (2 gyros per unit) will be replaced, followed by one of the two battery modules.

Gyro Unit

Day 6
EVA3 begins at 14:16 CEST 16 May 2009

The Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS) will be moved into the slot currently housed by COSTAR. Repair of the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) will start.

COS

Day 7
EVA4 begins at 14:16 CEST 17 May 2009

Repair of the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS). Three of the telescope bays will be outfitted with the New Outer Blanket Layers (NOBLs), keeping vital instruments at suitable temperatures for the rest of the telescope's life.

STIS

Day 8
EVA 5 begins at 14:16 CEST 18 May 2009

Replacing one of the three Fine Guidance Sensors (FGS) used to lock and track astronomical targets. Continue with repair of Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) if not completed on day 6.

SM3A: Installation of the Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS)

Days 9-12

Release of Hubble (on 19 May 2009 at 14:53 CEST) and preparation of Space Shuttle for return to the Kennedy Space Center.

SM3A: Discovery Touchdown at Kennedy Space Center
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