Launched in 2004, Swift has been central to NASA's high-energy astrophysics research. Its low Earth orbit is gradually decaying due to atmospheric drag, accelerated by heightened solar activity. The agency sees this challenge as a chance to test U.S. commercial technology while weighing whether boosting Swift's orbit could be more cost-effective than replacing its capabilities.
"NASA Science is committed to leveraging commercial technologies to find innovative, cost-effective ways to open new capabilities for the future of the American space sector," said Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters. She added that the agency is uniquely positioned to attempt a rare in-space demonstration to extend Swift's operational role.
The SBIR Phase III contracts draw from NASA's existing pool of participants, enabling faster evaluation of options given Swift's accelerating orbital decay. The studies will examine technical feasibility, available solutions, and associated risks. NASA has not committed to a boost mission and may still allow Swift to reenter the atmosphere at mission end.
Starfish Space of Seattle, Washington, will also contribute by assessing whether its Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability (SSPICY) demonstration system could perform a boost. SSPICY, already funded under an SBIR Phase III award, is designed to inspect defunct U.S. satellites in low Earth orbit.
"Our SBIR portfolio exists for circumstances like this - where investments in America's space industry provide NASA and our partners an opportunity to develop mutually beneficial capabilities," said Clayton Turner, associate administrator, Space Technology Mission Directorate. "Whether we choose to implement the technologies in this circumstance, understanding how to boost a spacecraft's orbit could prove valuable for future applications."
Swift was built to detect gamma-ray bursts and coordinate follow-up observations from NASA and partner telescopes. It has contributed groundbreaking insights into phenomena including exploding stars, stellar flares, cometary activity, and high-energy lightning on Earth. "Over its extremely productive lifetime, Swift has been a key player in NASA's network of space telescopes - directing our fleet to ensure we keep a watchful eye on changes in the universe, both far off and close to home," said Shawn Domagal-Goldman, acting director, Astrophysics Division, NASA Headquarters.
NASA's SBIR program, part of America's Seed Fund, is the nation's largest early-stage funding source for innovative technologies. It supports small businesses with fewer than 500 employees, helping advance NASA missions while addressing national challenges.
Related Links
Swift Observatory
Space Technology News - Applications and Research
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