NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies have called off their robotic mission to rescue the Swift gamma-ray observatory before it reenters Earth's atmosphere later this year.

The rescue satellite Link, launched July 3, was designed to fly up to the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, capture it with three robotic arms, and boost its orbit using xenon-fueled electric thrusters. However, ongoing attitude control issues will prevent Link from completing the rescue mission.

Katalyst cited problems with reaction wheels and cold gas thrusters that left the spacecraft struggling to maintain proper orientation while traveling at nearly 5 miles per second. Despite these setbacks, the company plans to use Link's remaining capacity for a close-in navigation system demonstration.

NASA awarded Katalyst a $30 million contract less than a year ago with an unusually tight schedule. The startup built the satellite in just nine months, accepting technical risks that would typically be avoided. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman defended the attempt, stating the agency takes smart risks when potential returns justify them.