NASA Swift Observatory to burn up in atmosphere next week
The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory will fall into Earth's atmosphere next week after a failed rescue mission ended its 22-year orbit.
Failed attempt to save spacecraft
A July launch was intended to boost the observatory out of danger. The mission began to spin uncontrollably before reaching its target. NASA subsequently shut off science operations last week.
End of astronomical observations
The spacecraft drifted so low that it could no longer lock onto targets. Astronomers have lost the ability to observe black holes and gamma-ray bursts. The observatory will now succumb to its fiery demise.
Legacy of scientific data
Scientists can still explore a massive archive of data left behind. The mission has produced discoveries far beyond its assigned portfolio. This legacy remains despite the impending end of operations.
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