NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies announced on August 20, 2026, that they are discontinuing a robotic mission aimed at rescuing the Swift gamma-ray telescope from its orbit. The mission involved a satellite named Link, which launched on July 3, designed to approach the Swift Observatory, capture it using three robotic arms, and elevate its orbit to avoid reentry. Katalyst stated that 'ongoing attitude control issues' hinder the Link satellite's ability to complete the mission. However, the spacecraft remains operational, and Katalyst plans to utilize Link's remaining capabilities, which may allow for a demonstration of its navigation system near Swift.
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NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies Abandon Swift Observatory Rescue Mission
NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies have called off a mission to rescue the Swift gamma-ray telescope due to ongoing technical issues. The Link satellite, which was intended to boost Swift's orbit, remains operational but will not complete its original mission.
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NASA calls off mission to rescue Swift gamma-ray observatory
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NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies Abandon Swift Observatory Rescue Mission