Last-minute launch problem delays satellite rescue mission for NASA
Summary
A rescue mission to save NASA’s Swift space telescope was delayed due to a last-minute problem with the rocket launch from a plane over the Pacific Ocean. The rocket, carrying a robotic spacecraft designed to capture Swift before it falls from orbit, did not release as planned, and a new launch date has not been set.Key Facts
- The mission aims to save NASA’s Swift Observatory, which will crash by October if not captured.
- Northrop Grumman’s plane launched from the Marshall Islands but could not release the Pegasus rocket.
- The Pegasus rocket carries a robotic spacecraft made by Katalyst Space Technologies.
- NASA stopped Swift’s science work earlier this year to try to keep it in orbit longer.
- Swift has monitored thousands of gamma ray bursts and exploding stars since 2004.
- NASA hired Katalyst Space last September for this $30 million mission to rescue Swift.
- Weather delays had already slowed the launch attempts earlier in the week.
- The new launch date for the rescue mission has not yet been decided.
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