Rescue satellite gets close to NASA's doomed telescope, even if it can't save it

A private spacecraft, Katalyst Space's Link, got within 15 kilometers of NASA's doomed Swift telescope, even though it couldn't save it. The rescue attempt, which was abandoned in August due to Link's fuel shortages, was conducted in July. The spacecraft used its sensors to gather data on Swift, which was already in a deteriorating orbit. Despite the close approach, Link had to turn back due to fuel limitations. The mission was rushed, with the spacecraft assembled in just nine months and parts used as needed. NASA paid Katalyst $30 million for the attempt, which was expected to be a risky experiment.

• "Link got within 15 kilometers of Swift on Tuesday."
• "Link had to turn back due to fuel shortages."
• "NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman acknowledged the mission's risks but saw it as a valuable learning experience."

The mission highlighted the challenges of salvaging aging satellites. Link was unable to boost Swift into a longer-lasting orbit, but it still had enough fuel to exercise its three arms and provide data before reentering the atmosphere. The spacecraft's failure to save Swift underscores the limitations of current satellite servicing technology. Katalyst is developing a next-generation spacecraft to extend Hubble's life. The story was updated to correct the date of the close approach.

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