# NASA's $30m Swift Rescue Mission Fails

> NASA's $30m attempt to save aging Swift telescope ends after robotic spacecraft reenters atmosphere
- Title: NASA's $30m Swift Rescue Mission Fails · Dallas Express
- Summary: NASA's $30m attempt to save aging Swift telescope ends after robotic spacecraft reenters atmosphere Swift telescope remains operational despite failed rescue…
- Keywords: nasa, swift, katalyst space, neil gehrels swift observatory, spacecraft, robotic arms, gamma ray bursts, satellite servicing, news, politics, NASA's, 30m
- Source: Dallas Express — https://dallasexpress.com/health/nasa-backed-swift-rescue-mission-ends-after-spacecraft-reenters-earths-atmosphere
- Author: Dallas Express
- Published: 2026-09-27T18:00:22+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nasa, swift, katalyst space, neil gehrels swift observatory, spacecraft, robotic arms, gamma ray bursts, satellite servicing, news, politics
## Rescue Mission Ends
Katalyst Space's robotic spacecraft reentered Earth's atmosphere after technical problems halted NASA's $30 million Swift rescue attempt
## Swift Still Working
The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory remains in orbit and has resumed scientific observations after rescue mission failed
## Mission Details
NASA awarded Katalyst a $30 million contract in September 2025 for LINK spacecraft to capture Swift and boost its orbit
## Technical Problems
LINK's electrical power system fault disabled two reaction wheels, causing spin and communication issues
## Orbit Test Success
LINK approached Swift within 7 to 9 miles and tested robotic arms during 85 days of in-orbit operations
## Swift's Future
Swift will reenter Earth's atmosphere around October 185 miles above Earth by late October after mission ends
## Key takeaway

Swift telescope remains operational despite failed rescue mission