A Robot Is Chasing a Telescope in Space—Here’s Why

AFP

NASA has launched a pioneering robotic mission that could transform the future of satellite servicing by attempting to rescue its aging Swift space telescope from re-entering Earth’s atmosphere.

The $30 million demonstration mission aims to show that robotic spacecraft can extend the operational life of satellites already in orbit, potentially reducing space debris and lowering the cost of future space missions.

The mission lifted off on Friday at 0836 GMT after delays caused by unfavorable weather and technical issues. The spacecraft, developed by U.S. startup Katalyst, was launched aboard a Pegasus rocket released from an aircraft over the Pacific Ocean.

After reaching an orbit close to Swift, the robotic spacecraft will deploy its solar panels, conduct system checks, and begin a complex rendezvous with the telescope. It is expected to spend several weeks locating, approaching, and docking with Swift using three robotic arms.

Once securely attached, the spacecraft will attempt to raise the telescope’s orbit by about 300 kilometers, returning it closer to its original altitude and extending its scientific mission. The orbital boost is expected to take at least a month.

Launched in 2004, the $250 million Swift space telescope has played a key role in studying gamma-ray bursts, the universe’s most energetic explosions. Without intervention, the observatory is gradually losing altitude and could eventually burn up during re-entry.

NASA officials say the mission represents a major milestone for in-orbit satellite servicing, with the potential to enable future spacecraft to refuel, repair, or reposition satellites instead of replacing them.

“This is a lot of firsts stacked on top of each other,” said Shawn Domagal-Goldman, director of NASA’s Astrophysics Division, adding that the agency is excited to test technology that could reshape how satellites are maintained in space.