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美计划发射航天器为天文卫星延长工作寿命
Xin Hua Wang· 2025-09-25 07:23
Core Viewpoint - NASA is collaborating with a startup to launch a commercial spacecraft to boost the orbit of the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, extending its operational lifespan [1] Group 1: NASA's Initiative - NASA announced a partnership with a startup, Katalyst Space Technologies, to launch a spacecraft for orbital boosting [1] - The mission aims to enhance the Swift Observatory's orbit due to accelerated orbital decay caused by increased atmospheric drag from recent solar activity [1] - The orbital boost mission is scheduled for spring 2026, with NASA monitoring solar activity to potentially adjust the timeline [1] Group 2: Swift Observatory Details - The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, launched in 2004, primarily observes gamma-ray bursts in the universe [1] - The observatory has been operating in low Earth orbit, but its orbit is decaying faster than expected [1] - Typically, satellites re-enter the Earth's atmosphere at the end of their lifespan, but this initiative aims to prolong its scientific observations [1]