NASA has awarded Arizona-based startup Katalyst Space Technologies $30 million to save its $500 million Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory (SWIFT) from falling into Earth’s atmosphere by pushing it to a higher orbit.

Launched in 2004, SWIFT has been observing distant galaxies and black holes from low-Earth orbit, about 364 miles (585 km) above the planet, but its orbit is gradually decaying due to atmospheric drag, giving it a 90% chance of burning up by late 2026.

The mission will demonstrate advanced space-docking technology, a capability increasingly tied to U.S.-China competition in space, including satellite servicing and military applications.

Katalyst CEO Ghonhee Lee emphasized that SWIFT was not designed for servicing, with no onboard propulsion or docking points, making this a key test of maneuverable spacecraft technology, Reuters has reported.

Modifications to Katalyst’s “Link” spacecraft will begin next month ahead of a planned launch in May 2026 to complete the orbital boost.