Katalyst Uploads LINK Software Update for Swift Boost Mission at 347-Km Orbit
Updated
Updated · Science@NASA · Aug 11
Katalyst Uploads LINK Software Update for Swift Boost Mission at 347-Km Orbit
3 articles · Updated · Science@NASA · Aug 11
Summary
Katalyst Space said it successfully uploaded new flight software to LINK, clearing the spacecraft to continue its approach to NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory.
The update adds attitude-control algorithms meant to keep LINK stable with its remaining actuators before a planned capture and orbit-raising attempt.
In the coming days, Katalyst and NASA will assess LINK through burns and maneuvers to align its orbit with Swift ahead of the boost operation.
Swift is operating at about 216 miles, or 347 kilometers, while its team has reduced drag and slowed orbital decay; raising the orbit would become harder below roughly 185 miles, or 300 kilometers.