NASA has selected Northrop Grumman’s Pegasus XL rocket to launch a robotic rescue mission for the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory in low-Earth orbit. The $30 million contract was awarded to startup Katalyst Space Technologies, which aims to address the observatory’s challenges due to atmospheric drag and lack of a propulsion system, ensuring its continued functionality.
The decision to use the Pegasus XL rocket, a solid-fueled launch vehicle that has seen limited use in recent years, marks a significant opportunity for the platform. This mission comes amidst other notable space industry updates, including Blue Origin’s plans to enhance its New Glenn rocket and SpaceX’s progress towards launching the next-generation Starship rocket.
The selection of the Pegasus rocket for the Swift Observatory rescue mission exemplifies the critical role of reliable launch vehicles in supporting scientific endeavors in space. With Katalyst’s ambitious project set to leverage Northrop Grumman’s proven rocket technology, the mission holds promise for extending the scientific capabilities of the Swift Observatory and unlocking new insights into the cosmos.
Source: Ars Technica