Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsProfessional astronomers do not book James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) or Hubble Space Telescope (HST) observations directly. They submit a science proposal to the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), which runs competitive calls and allocates observing time after peer review. A successful team may then need to provide detailed technical plans before its observations can be scheduled.
How the proposal process works
- Choose the right call and proposal category. Calls are organized into observing cycles, and the available categories can vary by telescope and cycle. For example, JWST Cycle 5 invited General Observer, Survey, and Archival Research proposals; HST Cycle 34 invited observing, archival, and theoretical research proposals. JWST also accepts Director’s Discretionary (DD) proposals for scientifically urgent cases between regular calls; these are still reviewed, not a way to bypass evaluation. Check the STScI proposal opportunities page for active calls.
- Make the scientific case and observing plan. Explain the question, why JWST or Hubble—or the relevant archive data—is suited to answering it, what work the team will do, and why the requested time or other resources are justified. The plan must also be technically feasible for the selected telescope and instruments.
- Prepare the submission in the Astronomer’s Proposal Tool (APT). APT is the electronic proposal interface used by both observatories. HST Phase I submissions include a completed APT form and an attached PDF. The PDF must follow the cycle’s template and page limits and be anonymized as required. JWST Cycle 5 also required APT and anonymized review material. Follow the instructions and tool version specified for the call you are entering.
- Submit before the cycle deadline. Deadlines are strict and differ between observatories and cycles. Use the active call rather than assuming dates from an earlier cycle still apply.
- Go through peer review. Scientists assess proposals and recommend programs for time allocation. Selection is competitive; submitting does not guarantee time.
- Complete follow-up requirements if selected. HST uses a two-phase process. Phase I is the scientific proposal; selected teams provide the full observation details in Phase II for technical feasibility review and scheduling. HST time is not fully approved for implementation until acceptable Phase II material is submitted. JWST follow-up requirements are specified in the documentation for each cycle.
Who is eligible to apply?
The cited JWST Cycle 5 and HST Cycle 34 policies allow investigators of any nationality or affiliation to submit proposals. HST’s Cycle 34 guidance explicitly includes researchers at any career stage, including students. A proposal names a Principal Investigator (PI); collaborators are identified as Co-Investigators (Co-Is). Depending on the observatory’s rules, the PI or an eligible Co-I can submit through APT.
STScI does not require institutional endorsement for HST Phase I, but a university, observatory, or other employer may impose its own internal approval process. Check local rules as well as the call’s submission requirements.
How reviewers assess proposals
JWST Cycle 5 set out three equally weighted primary criteria: impact within the proposal’s field, impact beyond that field, and suitability and feasibility. Its selection process used review panels and a Telescope Allocation Committee (TAC), which recommended programs to the STScI Director for final allocation. HST also uses panels and a TAC to make recommendations to the Director.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
For JWST Cycle 5, reviewers evaluated the proposal as written. That means the science rationale, wider significance, fit with the telescope and instruments, requested resources, and credible path from observations or analysis to results all needed to be clear. Reviewers included both close subject specialists and scientists with more distant expertise, so a proposal should explain its case to both audiences.
JWST and Hubble use related but distinct rules
The broad sequence—call, proposal, peer review, and follow-up planning—is similar, but a cycle’s categories, dates, review rules, forms, and post-selection requirements are not interchangeable. Use the current call for the telescope you intend to use.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Detail | JWST Cycle 5 example | HST Cycle 34 example |
|---|---|---|
| Proposal categories | General Observer, Survey, and Archival Research | Observing, archival, and theoretical research |
| Phase I deadline | October 15, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. US Eastern Daylight Time | April 16, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time |
| Cycle observing period | July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027 | November 1, 2026–October 31, 2027 |
| Review and allocation | Panels and a TAC recommended programs to the STScI Director for final allocation | Panels and a TAC recommend proposals to the Director |
| Follow-up after selection | Requirements are set in that cycle’s documentation | Phase II observation details undergo feasibility review; acceptable material is required for implementation |
These dates and rules describe those specific cycles, not a standing annual schedule. JWST Cycle 5 anticipated up to 8,000 hours of observing time, a call-specific allocation plan rather than a permanent yearly amount. Check the current STScI opportunities page for the open cycle’s deadline, categories, eligibility, templates, APT version, and review procedures.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What if the science is urgent?
JWST’s DD route is intended for scientifically urgent proposals that arise during a cycle. It is an exception to the regular call schedule, not a guaranteed allocation or a shortcut around scientific evaluation; a detailed proposal and review are still required. Consult the current DD call documentation for submission rules.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
