NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies have abandoned the Link rescue mission for the Swift gamma-ray observatory due to ongoing attitude control issues on the spacecraft. Launched in July, Link was designed to capture Swift with robotic arms and boost its orbit before it reenters Earth's atmosphere. The satellite remains operational, and the team may still demonstrate close-in navigation capabilities near Swift.
Background
The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory has been monitoring gamma-ray bursts since 2004 but is experiencing orbital decay. Commercial in-orbit servicing startups like Katalyst are pioneering new approaches to extend satellite lifespans through active debris removal and orbital boosting.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Aug 20, 2026 at 08:18 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10