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NASA prepares to launch daring rescue to save aging telescope from falling to Earth

NASA is spending $30 million on a first-of-its-kind robotic rescue mission to save the Swift telescope. The telescope has observed the sky for nearly 22 years but is sinking toward Earth due to intense solar activity. The operation aims to move the observatory into a higher, more stable orbit.

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What changed

NASA is now initiating the launch of a robotic lifesaver to prevent the telescope from falling back to Earth.

Live updates

  1. NASA Launches Robotic Mission to Save Swift Telescope

    NASA is spending $30 million on a first-of-its-kind robotic rescue mission to save the Swift telescope. The telescope has observed the sky for nearly 22 years but is sinking toward Earth due to intense solar activity. The operation aims to move the observatory into a higher, more stable orbit.

    What's confirmed:

    • NASA is paying $30 million for a first-of-its-kind rescue mission to the Swift telescope.
    • The Swift telescope has observed the sky for nearly 22 years.
    • The rescue mission involves a robotic lifesaver.
    • The telescope is sinking toward Earth because of recent intense solar activity.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • The mission was planned to launch as early as July 1.
    • Partners were ready for a June launch of the Swift Boost Mission.
    confidence 90%