Next step for LINK spacecraft – a software update that won't make things worse. Are you listening, Microsoft?
Spin slows as orbital rescue mission creeps forward
Katalyst Space is making headway in rescuing the spacecraft designed to recover NASA's Swift observatory. The LINK vehicle, launched in July, has reduced its spin from 9 degrees per second to 1.47 degrees per second, a significant improvement. This phase will continue while preparations are made for the next step in the mission.
A crucial component of the recovery is a substantial flight software update, a necessary change due to the spacecraft's altered configuration. The update will restore LINK's full attitude control, enabling the team to begin necessary maneuvers to align its orbit with Swift's. Despite concerns about fuel consumption, less than 100 grams of propellant was used to regain control, ensuring enough fuel remains for the rendezvous and boost phase.
NASA's three ion thrusters are powered by around 130 pounds (60 kg) of xenon gas. The cause of the initial attitude control failure remains unknown. Katalyst Space had previously reported that issues with the spacecraft's attitude control during commissioning led to LINK having only one functioning reaction wheel and partial Reaction Control System functionality.
The reduction in roll rate to 1.47 degrees per second is a critical recovery step. Once the software update is successful, the next stage will involve a rendezvous and capture of NASA's Swift Observatory using LINK's three robotic arms. After capture, LINK will gradually raise Swift back to its original orbit of 370 miles over several months before detaching and re-entering Earth's atmosphere.
Written by urgent.news from The Register's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.