Private Mission to Save NASA Telescope Faces Setback

Jul 28, 2026

51 min

Jul 28, 2026 23:31

Private mission to rescue NASA's aging telescope runs into its own trouble

## Thruster Issues Disrupt Rescue Mission

A private mission aimed at rescuing NASA's aging Swift telescope has encountered a significant challenge. Katalyst Space Technologies reported that their Link satellite, designed to boost the telescope to a higher orbit, is experiencing thruster malfunctions. This issue has caused the satellite to spin uncontrollably, disrupting communication.

## Urgent Need for Swift's Rescue

The problem arose three weeks after the satellite's launch, jeopardizing the mission to save Swift, which is descending faster than anticipated due to increased solar activity. Without intervention, Swift is expected to crash back to Earth this fall. The telescope, operational since 2004, is crucial for observing cosmic phenomena like gamma ray bursts.

## Efforts to Resolve the Issue

Despite the setback, Katalyst and NASA remain optimistic. The company is working tirelessly to regain control of Link, with all other major subsystems reportedly functioning well. NASA has invested $30 million in this rescue operation, which was rapidly organized within a year. The mission's success is vital to continue Swift's scientific contributions.

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