Nasa turns to robotic spacecraft to save telescope from falling back to Earth

NASA has contracted startup Katalyst Space Technologies to perform a rescue mission for the aging Swift Observatory. The robotic spacecraft 'Link' will attempt to boost the telescope into a higher, more stable orbit to prevent it from re-entering Earth's atmosphere.
Why it matters
This mission represents a pioneering effort in autonomous satellite servicing, potentially extending the lifespan of expensive space assets.
Nasa is racing to save an ageing telescope from falling back to Earth with a daring rescue mission.
The report provides factual details about the mission, the technology involved, and the risks to the telescope without editorializing.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in