NASA satellite to re-enter Earth's atmosphere

NASA's Swift gamma-ray observatory satellite, launched in 2004, is expected to re-enter Earth's atmosphere on November 2 or 3, depending on solar weather conditions. The satellite has been in orbit for nearly 22 years and will be destroyed by atmospheric friction during its descent, likely somewhere between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

Satellite's descent uncertain

The exact date and location of Swift's re-entry remain uncertain as of now. Solar weather conditions, such as solar flares and changes in the Earth's magnetic field, can affect the density of the upper atmosphere and influence the satellite's orbital decay. These factors make precise predictions difficult.

Rescue mission launched in 2026

A rescue mission launched in July 2026 aimed to raise Swift's orbit and prevent its re-entry. At the time, the satellite was at an altitude of 370 km, where residual atmospheric friction was slowing it down. The mission involved the Katalyst Space company's LINK satellite, which was intended to capture Swift and push it to an altitude of 600 km.

Rescue mission failed

The mission failed when the LINK satellite lost control shortly after its launch, leading to the abandonment of the rescue effort. The loss of the LINK satellite meant that Swift could not be moved to a higher orbit, and it will now continue its descent toward Earth's atmosphere, where it will be destroyed.