Feb 15, 2011 14:39 GMT  ·  By

Stsci has released HubbleSite, a free iOS application for astronomy fans. The app offers a glimpse of some of the most spectacular findings by the famous Hubble Space Telescope, complete with information on the discoveries, as well as on the telescope itself.

As its name implies, the Hubble Space Telescope is a space telescope that was carried into orbit by a space shuttle in 1990.

[admark=1]It is not the first space telescope, but it is one of the largest and most versatile, and has been quite the vital astronomical research tool for the past 20 years.

It is set to be replaced by the James Webb Space Telescope in a few years from now.

“HubbleSite, the online home of NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, invites you to help choose the world’s most popular Hubble images. Get wallpaper, Hubble facts, and more,” reads the app’s description.

“Hubble’s vast collection of images awaits your critical and discerning eye. Become part of the Hubble mission by voting for the most spectacular and awe-inspiring sights from Hubble’s archive.”

[…] “For over 20 years, Hubble has orbited the Earth, beaming home images of celestial splendor. Join in the excitement of the Hubble mission.”

Stsci reveals that its free app provides a selection of Hubble wallpaper images, chosen and edited for visually stunning results on the iPhone and iPod Touch.

The developer, however, does not mention whether the graphics has been optimized for the latest Retina Displays employed by Apple’s new-generation iPhone and iPod touch.

“Plus, get facts about Hubble history; the telescope; and the scientific discoveries it’s revealed, from the age of the universe to the mysterious force known as dark energy,” adds Stsci.

The HubbleSite iOS app is compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad and requires iOS 4.2 or later.

Download HubbleSite for iOS (Free)