NASA Is Attempting a Robotic Space Rescue

NASA is partnering with Katalyst Space Technologies to perform a historic robotic rescue of the aging Swift Observatory, whose orbit has been rapidly declining due to intense solar activity.

A specialized spacecraft called Link will attempt to dock with the telescope and boost it into a safer orbit, extending its mission to study cosmic explosions. If successful, this groundbreaking demonstration of robotic satellite servicing could open the door to future rescue missions for high-value spacecraft, including the Hubble Space Telescope.

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