Universe Today reports that the observatory is moving quickly to repair the damage, with an estimated completion date of March 11th. Repairs will be relatively inexpensive for now — reportedly less than $100,000 — but the observatory intends to use this opportunity to begin a series of longer-term repairs that will presumably bring the damaged cable up to the caliber of the remaining 17.

Even with the damage, Universe Today reports that the telescope has remained operational, albeit to a limited extent. The observatory is reportedly now using the telescope less frequently and only making slight movements. Materials for its repair are already en route to Arecibo, where the observatory's own staff should be able to begin work on the cable shortly.