Space telescopes are very important for humanity to solve the mysteries of the universe. However, their size limit their deployment.
Space telescopes can be designed to be modular like the DSLRs. The optics, the sensors, the control electronics and the propulsion system. Usually, the diameter of a space payload is the restricting factor. Therefore, I propose the sections that need to be frequently updated to have smaller diameter such as the electronics and the propulsion. Additionally, each section should have folded solar sails on them. Once the section's economical life is over, it would be released from the telescope. The section then deploys its solar sail and sails towards the sun to be destroyed with no space debris left behind.
The electronic and sensor technologies evolve so fast. However, the space telescopes have a long life. Therefore, their technology falls way behind during these years. Modular design would allow such parts to be changed more frequently. The propulsion section would also be changed, to allow more maneuvers, so that the telescope can be oriented frequently.
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