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

On July 26, Katalyst Space Technologies' Link spacecraft made an attempt to rescue NASA's Swift Observatory by getting within 15 kilometers (nine miles) of the telescope. However, due to low fuel, the rescue mission was ultimately unsuccessful. Katalyst CEO Ghonhee Lee acknowledged the spacecraft's proximity to Swift but emphasized that they were "so far" from the goal.

The rescue operation had already been called off in August due to Link's own fuel issues, but the company pursued the mission for future satellite service calls. Despite the failed rescue, Link continued to collect valuable data on Swift and its deteriorating orbit. Katalyst is now developing a new spacecraft that could potentially extend the life of the aging Hubble Space Telescope.