The LINK Mission Continues To Work Checklists, Toward A Grappling With, And Then A Boosting Of... Swift's Now Decaying Low Earth Orbit...

The "excess momentum" mentioned below was likely a sort of over-rotation / spin problem. Not uncommon, after such a launch. We're glad the team got it resolved -- and now will use autonomous software to keep the appropriate (Sun facing) attitude for the solar panels. [Latest prior backgrounder here.]

In any event, here's the latest, from the associated NASA blog:

. . .Commissioning is well underway for Katalyst’s robotic servicing spacecraft LINK, which is designed to boost the orbit of NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. . . .

[The team] stabilized the spacecraft after an initial period of excess momentum and enabled autonomous momentum management. Katalyst is now checking out LINK’s subsystems, including its electric propulsion system, which involves firing the spacecraft’s three xenon-fueled thrusters. . . .

The commissioning process is anticipated to take a few weeks, with flexibility built in to allow the team to pause, assess data, and adjust as needed. After the commissioning phase, LINK will begin its journey to meet and rendezvous with Swift. . . .

Now you know -- close up cabaret magic again, tonight -- downtown. Smile. . . after hearing Tchaikovsky's Fifth, live last night in the park -- with fireworks, after.

नमस्ते