NASA and Katalyst Space Cancel Swift Observatory Reboost Mission
NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies have officially canceled plans to use the Link spacecraft to raise the orbit of the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The decision follows persistent attitude-control problems with Link, including an uncontrolled spin that disrupted communications.
The mission, initially awarded to Katalyst Space under a $30 million contract in September 2025, aimed to extend the operational life of the Swift Observatory by boosting its orbit. However, despite attempts to stabilize the spacecraft post-launch on July 3, 2026, the issues proved insurmountable.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman commented, "This is not the outcome we were working toward, but it does not change why this mission was worth attempting." The Swift Observatory remains operational but is expected to re-enter Earth's atmosphere later in 2026 unless alternative solutions are implemented.