**NASA to Prevent $500M Spacecraft from Crashing to Earth**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 25, 2025, 11:03 AM*
NASA has awarded a $30 million contract to Arizona-based start-up Katalyst Space Technologies to save the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory (SWIFT) from falling into Earth’s atmosphere. The $500 million orbiting telescope, operational since 2004, has been studying distant galaxies and black holes. However, its low-Earth orbit is gradually decaying due to atmospheric drag.
### Mission Details
Katalyst plans to launch a modified version of its “Link” spacecraft to rendezvous with SWIFT and push it farther into space. This mission will serve as a critical test of space-docking technology, essential for military operations and satellite maintenance.
One of the biggest challenges is that SWIFT has no onboard propulsion system or docking hooks for spacecraft to latch onto. NASA scientists estimate that without intervention, SWIFT has a 90% chance of burning up in Earth’s atmosphere by late 2026.
### Service Strategy
Originally intended for an internal demo mission, the Link spacecraft will undergo modifications starting next month, with a planned launch date in May 2026. The team has studied SWIFT’s detailed designs and will equip Link with a customized robotic mechanism.
Once in orbit, Link will carefully grip small metal rims on the observatory to secure itself and perform the orbital boost, extending SWIFT’s operational life.
### Military Implications
Katalyst CEO Ghonhee Lee highlighted the broader impact of the mission, noting that it demonstrates the capability to service any satellite—even those without a launch adapter ring. The Pentagon is closely monitoring the development, and Lee aims to collaborate with the US Space Command to explore further orbital maneuvering possibilities.
This mission underscores the strategic importance of space-docking technology amid increasing geopolitical competition between the United States and China.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/nasa-enlists-start-up-to-rescue-500m-spacecraft-in-orbit/story
