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Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory

NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is a satellite that studies gamma-ray bursts, the most powerful explosions in the universe, and other cosmic objects and events.

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Spacecraft Commissioning On Track for Mission to Boost NASA’s Swift

One of LINK’s deployed solar panels
A solar panel extends from the side of Katalyst Space’s LINK robotic servicing spacecraft in orbit in this image captured by one of LINK’s cameras July 9, 2026. An identical panel stretches from the spacecraft’s other side, and the entire array spans about 20 feet (6 meters). LINK will use the array to power systems as it attempts to boost the altitude of NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory this summer.
Credit: Katalyst Space

Teams continue to progress through in-orbit preparations for the robotic servicing spacecraft designed to boost NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory to a higher altitude. Katalyst Space’s LINK spacecraft remains healthy and is about halfway through this commissioning process.

LINK launched July 3, completed its initial postlaunch sequence, and began system checkouts. After completing solar array deployment and establishing communications, Katalyst now has commissioned LINK’s power systems and avionics, as well as conducted propulsion system checkouts. This has involved firing the spacecraft’s xenon-fueled thrusters, which will be used to travel to Swift and slowly raise its orbital altitude over the course of several months.

The Katalyst team also quickly addressed early communications and attitude control issues seen during flight operations, including an issue with one of the spacecraft’s three reaction wheels. After identifying the cause, they implemented flight software patches and operational updates that restored reliable communications and stable attitude control.

A firing thruster aboard LINK
LINK fires one of its xenon-fueled thrusters in this image captured by the spacecraft July 8, 2026. LINK will use three of these thrusters to travel to Swift and slowly raise its altitude over the course of several months.
Credit: Katalyst Space

The commissioning process will continue over the coming weeks, with flexibility built in to allow the team to pause, assess data, and adjust as needed. LINK then will begin its transit phase to meet up with Swift. Monitor NASA’s Swift blog for continued updates:

https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/swift