Comment by baggachipz

I remember when this telescope was first launched and deployed, and how its initial lackluster performance was a great source of mockery and derision of "government overspending for nothing" and a general disdain for space-based science. Since then, it has absolutely revolutionized our understanding of the universe and provided untold inspiration for millions (The famous Deep Field image being the prime example). It is a crowning achievement for NASA and should be used as an example any time some elected official questions the spending on research instruments like this.