The Space Shuttle Endeavour launched on a mission known as STS-61 to carry out essential repairs and upgrades to the Hubble Space Telescope. Hubble, initially launched in 1990, had faced serious issues with its primary mirror, which had been ground incorrectly, causing images to be blurred. NASA recognized the need for a mission to rectify these deficiencies, enabling Hubble to fulfill its potential in astronomical observation. The STS-61 mission was carefully planned in conjunction with an extensive review of Hubble's problems and potential solutions.

The Endeavour, lifted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carried a crew of seven astronauts, including notable figures such as mission commander Richard Covey and payload commander Jeffrey Hoffman. The crew executed complex tasks to install corrective optics and new instruments, along with a variety of servicing operations. One of the most noteworthy achievements of this mission was the installation of the Corrective Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement (COSTAR) that allowed Hubble to deliver sharp images of celestial bodies.

The mission took place over five days and included five spacewalks, which highlighted the skill and bravery of the astronauts. Each spacewalk required meticulous planning and coordination, as the crew had to handle delicate instruments while in a microgravity environment. STS-61's success laid the groundwork for subsequent servicing missions, setting a precedent for the ongoing maintenance of space assets.