NASA has initiated a $30 million mission to adjust the orbit of the Swift Observatory, launched in 2004, before it potentially falls back to Earth. The operation is scheduled to begin this week.
According to NASA, the Swift Observatory studies gamma-ray bursts and other high-energy events in the universe. The agency is undertaking this rescue mission to ensure the continued functionality of the telescope.
The US$30 million salvage operation will utilize a robotic spacecraft, according to reports. This spacecraft is intended to provide a gentle nudge to raise the observatory’s orbit.
The Swift Observatory was launched in 2004 and has been operational for nearly two decades. The need for this orbital adjustment indicates the natural decay of its orbit over time.
The mission is expected to commence as soon as this week, with NASA officials overseeing the operation. Details regarding the specific maneuvers and technologies involved have not been fully disclosed but will be released as the mission progresses.
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