NASA to launch rescue mission for aging Swift space telescope

NASA is planning a rescue operation to raise the orbit of the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, which has been gradually descending since its 2004 launch. The agency will work with Arizona‑based Katalyst Space Technologies, which has developed a capture vehicle called LINK to attach to Swift and lift it to a higher, safer orbit. Without the maneuver, the satellite could re‑enter Earth’s atmosphere as early as summer 2026, ending its scientific contributions. The mission, targeted for May, is funded at roughly $30 million and aims to extend Swift’s operational life for continued observations of cosmic phenomena.

The rescue effort follows concerns that increased solar activity this cycle has accelerated atmospheric drag on the satellite, prompting urgent planning of flight paths and capture techniques similar to those used for the International Space Station.