NASA's mission to rescue its Swift space telescope has been delayed due to a last-minute rocket issue. The spacecraft was set to launch to raise the telescope's orbit, but the problem forced an indefinite postponement.
The Swift observatory, which has been studying gamma-ray bursts since 2004, is gradually losing altitude. Without intervention, it would eventually burn up in Earth's atmosphere, ending critical scientific observations of cosmic explosions.
Sources reported the delay but provided no specific details on the nature of the rocket problem or a new launch date. The mission involves sending a specialized spacecraft to dock with Swift and boost its orbit, extending its operational life by several years.
The delay leaves Swift in its current decaying orbit, but NASA engineers say the telescope remains safe for now. The agency is expected to assess the issue and announce a revised schedule soon.
Industry observers note that the mission also has defense implications, as the same technology could be used to service or de-orbit other satellites.