Robotic spacecraft launched to rescue NASA's Swift Observatory from Earth re-entry

Key facts

• NASA's Swift Observatory is losing altitude and risks re-entry by October.
• A robotic spacecraft named Link has launched to rescue the Swift Observatory.
• Katalyst Space Technologies developed the Link spacecraft.
• The mission is funded by a $30 million NASA contract.
• The objective is to grapple the observatory and boost its orbit.

NASA's Swift Observatory is at risk of burning up in Earth's atmosphere by October as its altitude continues to decrease. To avert this, a robotic spacecraft named Link has been launched with the specific mission of rescuing the observatory. Link was developed by Katalyst Space Technologies, a company that secured a $30 million contract with NASA for this operation. The primary goal of the Link mission is to grapple the Swift Observatory while it is in orbit. Once secured, Link will attempt to boost Swift's orbit, thereby preventing its uncontrolled re-entry and potential destruction. This intervention aims to extend the operational lifespan of the valuable scientific instrument.