sci21005 — Announcement
The selection of the Hubble Cycle 29 Science Program
11 October 2021: -By Antonella Nota and Laura Watkins - After 31 years in orbit, the yearly selection of the scientific program for Hubble has almost become routine. Year after year, this fine-tuned process runs its course, involving a large cross section of the astronomical community, including significant European representation. When the COVID pandemic struck, the challenge was set — would it be possible to carry out this rigorous process during the pandemic, as people transitioned to working from home, travel was not possible, and the only interactions were virtual? Yes was the only option. The JWST and HST Cycle 28 Time Allocation reviews were completely virtual too, and now so is Cycle 29. With a lot of planning, they were all carried out smoothly, thanks to the commitment, dedication and collaborative spirit of all community representatives involved and the STScI staff. We personally asked the European Chairs and at-large members what their …