NASA is in a race against time to save the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, a space telescope nearing the end of its life. Launched on November 20, 2004, Swift has helped scientists study powerful cosmic events like gamma-ray bursts using its three onboard telescopes. However, it’s facing increased atmospheric drag that threatens its orbit.
To tackle this issue, NASA has paused most of Swift’s scientific observations. “Swift usually quickly turns to watch targets,” explained S. Bradley Cenko, the mission’s principal investigator. For now, the telescope will continue to detect gamma-ray bursts but won’t move to observe other phenomena with its additional instruments.
Over the last two decades, Swift has gradually lost altitude, a common fate for satellites. Due to heightened solar activity recently, it’s experiencing even more drag than expected. By mid-2026, there’s a 50% chance that Swift could re-enter Earth’s atmosphere uncontrollably.
To prevent this, NASA contracted Katalyst Space Technologies, a startup in Arizona, to execute a rescue mission. They received $30 million to develop a spacecraft that will boost Swift to a more stable orbit. Scheduled for launch this June, the LINK mission aims to adjust Swift’s position to ensure its longevity.
Currently, Swift’s average altitude has dropped below 250 miles (400 kilometers), and NASA needs it above 185 miles (300 kilometers) for the boost to be effective. By pausing scientific operations, NASA hopes to slow Swift’s descent so it can be repositioned before it’s too late. “We’re transitioning operations now to give it the best margin we possibly can,” Cenko reiterated.
If successful, this mission may set precedence for future satellite rescues, as the space community grapples with the increasing issue of aging satellites and their impending risks. According to the European Space Agency, approximately 36,500 pieces of debris are tracked in low Earth orbit, and the number of active satellites is expected to keep rising.
In essence, this effort not only aims to extend Swift’s life but might also provide valuable insights for managing other aging spacecraft in the future.
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gamma rays,Low Earth orbit,NASA
