Rescue Mission Called Off For NASA’s Aging Swift Space Telescope
Umer Jamshaid | August 20, 2026
NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies announced on Wednesday the cancellation of the mission to save the Swift Observatory, dooming the telescope to a fiery reentry later this year.
Initially, NASA had hired Katalyst for $30 million to raise the aging satellite to a safer orbit. However, due to intense solar activity and subsequent issues controlling the rescue spacecraft Link, the mission was called off. Link had spun uncontrollably shortly after its launch in early July, despite efforts from flight controllers to slow its tumble.
Although the rescue attempt has failed, Katalyst will continue operating Link near Swift as a demonstration of capabilities for future space rescue operations.
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