NASA has tasked Katalyst Space Technologies, a startup founded in 2020, with an ambitious mission to save the Swift observatory, a $500 million astronomy satellite at risk of crashing back to Earth. Swift, launched in 2004 to detect gamma-ray bursts, is losing altitude due to increased atmospheric drag from solar activity. Without thrusters to maintain its orbit, Swift’s altitude has decreased significantly, threatening its ability to continue its valuable scientific work. Katalyst’s solution involves launching a small satellite, the Link spacecraft, to attach to Swift and boost its orbit back to safety. This mission, awarded a $30 million contract, must be completed in less than a year, showcasing the innovative potential of new space technologies.
QUESTION: How might the success of this mission influence future efforts to extend the life of aging satellites?
A bold satellite rescue mission came together in record time, but will it work?
