Reaction wheel failures leave Swift rescue mission spinning in orbit

NASA’s Swift rescue mission is paused after Katalyst’s Link spacecraft developed reaction wheel failures in orbit.

Engineers are keeping Link powered and are working to stabilize the vehicle, update its guidance and control, and revise the approach.

The mission was meant to boost Swift’s orbit and serve as a commercial satellite-servicing test.

If Link can be repaired and rendezvous safely, Swift’s science operations could be extended.