NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies cancel Swift gamma-ray observatory rescue mission

Rescue Mission Halted

NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies announced the cancellation of their robotic mission to save the Swift gamma-ray observatory. The Link rescue satellite, launched on July 3, was intended to capture Swift and boost its orbit to prevent atmospheric re-entry. However, the mission has been terminated due to technical difficulties with the Link spacecraft.

Technical Challenges with Link Satellite

Katalyst, the startup leading the rescue effort, reported "ongoing attitude control issues" with the Link satellite. Although the spacecraft remains operational, these problems prevent it from completing its primary objective. Two of the satellite's three reaction wheels, crucial for attitude control, stopped working in late July, along with issues concerning cold gas thrusters.

Swift Observatory's Fate

With the rescue mission called off, the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is now expected to fall out of orbit and burn up upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. The Link satellite may still attempt a close-in navigation system demonstration near Swift, but the primary goal of orbital rescue will not be achieved.

High-Risk Endeavor

The Swift rescue mission was considered high-risk from its inception. NASA awarded Katalyst a $30 million contract with a tight nine-month deadline to build and launch the Link satellite. This compressed timeline necessitated accepting technical risks that might otherwise be avoided, as noted by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, who stated that the mission was worth attempting despite the outcome.