{"content_id":"ry9ecv21pj","slug":"nasa-swift-on-orbit-servicing-satellite-repair-industry","locale":"en","schema_type":"Report","category":"report","category_name":"Report","title":"The Era of Repairing and Reusing Satellites: NASA’s Swift Rescue Mission and the Orbital Services Industry","summary":"The NASA Swift observatory rescue mission, reported in July 2026, illustrates a shift from the practice of launching and then discarding satellites to that of servicing and extending their lifespans in orbit. This article summarizes the core technologies, key examples, and scientific, commercial, and security implications and risks of in-orbit servicing in a data-driven format.","author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["In-orbit services refer to the technologies and business models that support the inspection, capture, docking, refueling, orbit change, component replacement, or decommissioning of satellites in orbit.","The core of the Swift rescue mission is its ability to perform rendezvous, grappling, and orbital ascent—that is, to safely approach and capture a rapidly descending low-Earth orbit observatory and raise it to a higher orbit.","Extending the lifespan of satellites reduces the cost of launching new satellites and the risk of data gaps, while preserving the scientific value of the long-term observational data that has already been accumulated.","Commercial orbital services are linked to extending the lifespan of communications satellites, reducing space debris, and protecting national security space assets; however, managing issues related to collisions, liability, and dual-use technologies is crucial.","The Hubble servicing mission, DARPA’s Orbital Express, and Northrop Grumman’s MEV demonstrate that orbital services have moved from the experimental stage to commercial operation."],"content_markdown":"## Overview\n\nFor a long time, satellites were treated as infrastructure that was “launched, operated, and then discarded once they broke down or ran out of fuel.” However, as launch costs, satellite manufacturing costs, orbital congestion, and space debris issues have grown, “in-orbit services”—which involve inspecting and repairing satellites in orbit to extend their lifespans—are emerging as a core sector of the space industry.\n\nThe rescue mission for the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, jointly conducted by NASA and the startup Katalyst and reported in July 2026, is a prime example of this shift. Swift is a gamma-ray burst observation mission launched in 2004 and is a low-Earth orbit observatory that has been accumulating scientific data over a long period. According to reports, the goal of the rescue mission is to raise Swift’s orbit as it descends, thereby delaying the risk of atmospheric reentry and extending its operational lifespan for scientific purposes.\n\nTaking the Swift rescue mission as a starting point, this article summarizes what in-orbit services are, what technologies they require, why they are important from both an industrial and scientific data perspective, and what risks and regulations are involved.\n\n## Key Definition: What Are Orbital Services?\n\nOrbital services, or on-orbit services, refer to maintenance and operational support performed in orbit on satellites, space telescopes, spacecraft, and space debris objects already in space.\n\n### Key Functions\n\n| Function | Description | Key Value |\n|---|---|---|\n| Inspection | Close-range verification of satellite status using cameras and sensors | Fault diagnosis, insurance and operational decision-making |\n| Rendezvous and Docking | Matching relative velocity with the target satellite and approaching/docking | Prerequisite for repairs, towing, and refueling |\n| Grappling | Grasping the target using robotic arms, clamps, adapters, etc. | Capture of uncooperative satellites; support for rescue and disposal |\n| Orbit Ascent and Maintenance | Raising the target satellite’s altitude using the service spacecraft’s propulsion | Life extension, reentry delay, mission continuation |\n| Refueling | Transferring propellant to restore the satellite’s attitude and orbital control capabilities | Extending the operational lifespan of high-value satellites |\n| Component Replacement and Repair | Replacing or calibrating batteries, sensors, modules, optical systems, etc. | Fault recovery, performance improvement |\n| Active Debris Removal | Moving end-of-life satellites or debris to a safe orbit or reentry trajectory | Reducing space debris, protecting the orbital environment |\n\n## Why the Swift Rescue Mission Is Drawing Attention\n\nThe Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is a NASA space observatory designed to observe gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, and high-energy phenomena around black holes. A long-term observatory is not merely a piece of equipment but a data asset that accumulates over time. Prolonged observations with the same equipment enhance the reliability of analyses regarding changes in astronomical phenomena, explosion frequencies, the connectivity of follow-up observations, and long-term trends.\n\nThere are three reasons why the Swift rescue mission is important.\n\n1. **Extending the Lifespan of Scientific Instruments**: Building and launching new observatories requires significant time and expense. If existing instruments continue to produce valid data, simply raising their orbit can preserve substantial scientific value.\n2. **Validating the Difficulty of Low-Earth Orbit Services**: Low-Earth orbit satellites can continue to lose altitude due to atmospheric drag. The ability to safely approach and capture a fast-moving target to raise its orbit lays the foundation for future satellite rescue and decommissioning missions.\n3. **Public-Private Partnership Model**: When public agencies such as NASA utilize service spacecraft from private startups, government science missions and the commercial space services market can grow in tandem.\n\n## Key Technologies: Essential Elements for Swift-Type Rescue Missions\n\n### 1. Precise Orbit Prediction and Rendezvous\n\nService spacecraft must precisely calculate the target satellite’s position, velocity, attitude, and rotation. The difficulty increases significantly if the target lacks a service docking port or cannot provide cooperative communications.\n\nThe required technologies are as follows:\n\n- Relative navigation: Estimating relative position using radar, LiDAR, optical cameras, star trackers, etc.\n- Automatic approach control: Reducing relative velocity with the target while maintaining a collision-avoidance zone\n- Emergency disengagement procedures: Immediate separation in the event of unexpected rotation of the target satellite, communication delays, or sensor failures\n\n### 2. Robotic Arms and Grappling\n\nNot all satellites are designed with repair in mind. Older satellites may lack standard docking adapters. In such cases, the service spacecraft must stabilize the target using robotic arms, clamps, capture devices, or the satellite’s own structural components.\n\nThe risks are significant. Improper handling could damage solar panels, antennas, or scientific equipment, and could also generate space debris.\n\n### 3. Orbit Elevation and Propellant Management\n\nIn rescue missions like Swift, the key objective is to safely elevate the target’s orbit. The service spacecraft must calculate the required delta-v based on the combined mass of itself and the target satellite, and control the rotational forces and vibrations generated during propulsion.\n\n### 4. Risk Management and Liability\n\nWhile successful in-orbit services increase asset value, failure can result in collisions, debris, and mission loss. Therefore, the following criteria are critical during all pre-mission phases:\n\n- Access permissions and the scope of responsibility for the operating entity\n- Collision-avoidance procedures and independent verification\n- Accurate data sharing on the target satellite’s status\n- Safe orbit or separation procedures in the event of failure\n- Compliance with international and domestic regulations, including space object registration, liability agreements, and frequency and operating licenses\n\n## How Is the Existing “Launch-and-Discard” Model Changing?\n\nThe traditional satellite business model has largely involved manufacturing and launching satellites, then replacing them with new ones once their design lifespans end. Orbital services are transforming this model in three key ways.\n\n| Existing Model | Orbital Service Model | Implications of the Change |\n|---|---|---|\n| Mission termination upon failure | Failure diagnosis and repair possible | Increased recovery value of satellites |\n| Disposal upon fuel depletion | Fuel replenishment or external propulsion support | Extended revenue period for high-value satellites |\n| Focus on design life | Operation based on actual condition | More sophisticated asset management |\n| Increase in space debris | Support for orbital transfer and reentry | Improved sustainability of the orbital environment |\n| Reliance on new launches | Reuse of existing infrastructure | Reduced costs, time, and risk of launch failure |\n\nIn other words, satellites are transforming from single-use equipment into “operational infrastructure assets.” This marks an extension into space of the same mindset used to maintain and prolong the service life of aircraft on the ground.\n\n## Major In-Orbit Service Missions and Industry Examples\n\nThe table below presents representative examples to help understand the evolution of in-orbit services. Some involve crewed maintenance, some are robotic demonstrations, and others are commercial mission life extensions.\n\n| Year | Mission/Operator | Target | Method | Results/Significance |\n|---:|---|---|---|---|\n| 1993–2009 | NASA Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions | Hubble Space Telescope | Maintenance by the Space Shuttle and astronauts | Optical calibration, equipment replacement, and mission life extension. A prime example of successful in-orbit maintenance |\n| 1997–1999 | Japan’s ETS-VII | Experimental satellite | Automatic rendezvous and docking, robotic arm experiments | Demonstration of autonomous docking and space robotics operation technologies |\n| 2007 | DARPA Orbital Express | ASTRO·NEXTSat | Automatic docking, refueling, and component replacement | Demonstration of core technologies for unmanned orbital servicing |\n| 2020 | Northrop Grumman MEV-1 | Intelsat 901 | GEO Communications Satellite Docking and Lifespan Extension | A leading example of commercial satellite lifespan extension services |\n| 2021 | Northrop Grumman MEV-2 | Intelsat 10-02 | Docking with the GEO satellite during operation | Expansion of docking services with satellites in commercial operation |\n| Since 2021 | Astroscale ELSA-d | Low-Earth Orbit Capture Demonstration Target | Demonstration of Magnetic Capture and Proximity Operations | Contributing to the verification of space debris removal and satellite capture technologies |\n| 2024 | Decision to terminate NASA OSAM-1 | Landsat 7 planned | Plans to demonstrate refueling, assembly, and manufacturing | Challenges identified in complex maintenance missions with high cost and schedule risks |\n| 2026 Report | Katalyst·NASA Swift Rescue Mission | Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory | Objectives: Rendezvous, Grappling, and Orbit Elevation | Growing interest in the possibility of rescuing and extending the lifespan of low-Earth orbit science observatories. Final results require further verification |\n\n## Why Is Extending the Lifespan of Scientific Missions So Valuable?\n\nSpace telescopes and high-energy observatories are not merely devices for taking “new pictures.” The longer they operate, the greater the continuity and comparability of their data.\n\n### The Value of Data Generated by Long-Term Observations\n\n- **Time-domain astronomy**: It enables the rapid detection of phenomena that suddenly brighten, such as gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, and tidal disruption events.\n- **Multi-wavelength follow-up observations**: Missions like Swift provide observation alerts to other ground-based and space-based telescopes, serving as a starting point for collaborative research.\n- **Consistent Instrument Baseline**: Accumulating data over several years using the same observational equipment facilitates the analysis of long-term changes.\n- **Increased Probability of Detecting Rare Events**: The longer the observation period, the higher the likelihood of discovering rare events in space.\n\nThe discovery of ancient quasars by the Euclid space telescope and the observations of galactic centers by the Webb telescope—both reported in the same week of 2026—can be viewed in this context. The longer high-performance space infrastructure operates stably, the greater the cumulative value of the scientific data.\n\n## Industrial Implications of Collaboration Between Private Startups and NASA\n\nOrbital services are not a single technology but an industrial ecosystem spanning satellite operations, robotics, propulsion, insurance, defense, and space traffic management. Collaboration between NASA and private companies can foster growth in the following markets.\n\n### 1. Satellite Lifespan Extension Market\n\nIn particular, geostationary communication satellites have high manufacturing and launch costs, and fuel often limits their lifespan. If external service spacecraft take over attitude and orbital maintenance, the operational period of these satellites—which generates revenue—can be extended.\n\n### 2. Space Debris Reduction Market\n\nServices that safely re-enter end-of-life satellites into Earth’s atmosphere or move them to graveyard orbits reduce orbital congestion. This is critical for commercial satellite constellations, scientific missions, and crewed space activities alike.\n\n### 3. National Security and Dual-Use Technology\n\nRendezvous and capture technologies can be used to rescue malfunctioning satellites, but they also have dual-use capabilities that allow access to or interference with other countries’ satellites. Therefore, transparent operational norms, clearly defined mission objectives, and international confidence-building measures are necessary.\n\n## Business Models and Revenue Structures\n\n| Business Model | Customers | Revenue Logic | Key Risks |\n|---|---|---|---|\n| Lifecycle Extension Contracts | Telecommunications satellite operators, governments | Securing a revenue period until replacement with a new satellite | Docking failure, insurance costs, regulatory approval |\n| Rescue and Recovery Missions | Scientific institutions, governments, satellite operators | Preventing loss of high-value assets | Uncertainty regarding the target satellite’s condition |\n| Space Debris Removal | Governments, orbital management agencies, satellite constellation operators | Regulatory compliance and reduction of collision risks | Uncertainty regarding who bears the costs |\n| Inspection and Status Assessment | Satellite operators, insurance companies | Providing close-up imagery and status data | Privacy and security sensitivities |\n| Standard Service Modules | Satellite manufacturers, operators | Creating an ecosystem of designs that can be maintained in the future | Delays in standardization, increased initial costs |\n\n## Why Standardization Is Important\n\nFor orbital services to become a large-scale industry, satellites must be designed to be serviceable from the outset. Just as cars have standard diagnostic ports and tow points, satellites require docking adapters, fueling interfaces, grappling points, and serviceable module designs.\n\nAs serviceable designs become more widespread, service missions can become safer and more cost-effective. Conversely, if capture points are unclear—as was the case with older satellites—customized rescue equipment and risk assessments are required for each mission.\n\n## Risks and Limitations\n\nIn-orbit servicing is not a solution to every problem. The following limitations must also be considered:\n\n- **Economic Feasibility**: The cost of launching and operating a service spacecraft must be lower than the cost of replacing the satellite with a new one.\n- **Technical Difficulty**: Satellites that are spinning or damaged are difficult to capture.\n- **Liability Issues**: If debris or a collision occurs during the service process, determining liability becomes complicated.\n- **Potential for Military Misinterpretation**: Close-proximity operation technology could be misinterpreted as surveillance or interference technology.\n- **Schedule Risk**: If the target satellite’s orbital descent rate is too fast, there may not be enough time to prepare for the rescue mission.\n\n## Conclusion\n\nThe Swift rescue mission symbolizes the shift toward viewing satellites not as “disposable items” but as “space infrastructure that can be repaired and extended.” In-orbit servicing has the potential to extend the data lifespan of scientific observatories, enhance the economic viability of commercial satellites, and reduce the problem of space debris.\n\nHowever, the conditions for success are clear. Precise rendezvous and capture technologies, safe orbital ascent capabilities, transparent operational guidelines, serviceable satellite design standards, and a liability framework that accounts for the possibility of failure must all be developed in tandem. The final outcome of the Swift case and subsequent verification will serve as a key indicator of the future reliability of the low-Earth orbit rescue services market.","content_html":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#overview\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"overview\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eOverview\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a long time, satellites were treated as infrastructure that was “launched, operated, and then discarded once they broke down or ran out of fuel.” However, as launch costs, satellite manufacturing costs, orbital congestion, and space debris issues have grown, “in-orbit services”—which involve inspecting and repairing satellites in orbit to extend their lifespans—are emerging as a core sector of the space industry.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rescue mission for the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, jointly conducted by NASA and the startup Katalyst and reported in July 2026, is a prime example of this shift. Swift is a gamma-ray burst observation mission launched in 2004 and is a low-Earth orbit observatory that has been accumulating scientific data over a long period. According to reports, the goal of the rescue mission is to raise Swift’s orbit as it descends, thereby delaying the risk of atmospheric reentry and extending its operational lifespan for scientific purposes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the Swift rescue mission as a starting point, this article summarizes what in-orbit services are, what technologies they require, why they are important from both an industrial and scientific data perspective, and what risks and regulations are involved.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#key-definition-what-are-orbital-services\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"key-definition-what-are-orbital-services\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eKey Definition: What Are Orbital Services?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrbital services, or on-orbit services, refer to maintenance and operational support performed in orbit on satellites, space telescopes, spacecraft, and space debris objects already in space.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#key-functions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"key-functions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eKey Functions\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFunction\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDescription\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eKey Value\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInspection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClose-range verification of satellite status using cameras and sensors\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFault diagnosis, insurance and operational decision-making\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRendezvous and Docking\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMatching relative velocity with the target satellite and approaching/docking\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrerequisite for repairs, towing, and refueling\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGrappling\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGrasping the target using robotic arms, clamps, adapters, etc.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCapture of uncooperative satellites; support for rescue and disposal\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrbit Ascent and Maintenance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRaising the target satellite’s altitude using the service spacecraft’s propulsion\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLife extension, reentry delay, mission continuation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRefueling\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTransferring propellant to restore the satellite’s attitude and orbital control capabilities\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExtending the operational lifespan of high-value satellites\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eComponent Replacement and Repair\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReplacing or calibrating batteries, sensors, modules, optical systems, etc.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFault recovery, performance improvement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eActive Debris Removal\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMoving end-of-life satellites or debris to a safe orbit or reentry trajectory\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReducing space debris, protecting the orbital environment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#why-the-swift-rescue-mission-is-drawing-attention\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-the-swift-rescue-mission-is-drawing-attention\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy the Swift Rescue Mission Is Drawing Attention\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is a NASA space observatory designed to observe gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, and high-energy phenomena around black holes. A long-term observatory is not merely a piece of equipment but a data asset that accumulates over time. Prolonged observations with the same equipment enhance the reliability of analyses regarding changes in astronomical phenomena, explosion frequencies, the connectivity of follow-up observations, and long-term trends.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are three reasons why the Swift rescue mission is important.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExtending the Lifespan of Scientific Instruments\u003c/strong\u003e: Building and launching new observatories requires significant time and expense. If existing instruments continue to produce valid data, simply raising their orbit can preserve substantial scientific value.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eValidating the Difficulty of Low-Earth Orbit Services\u003c/strong\u003e: Low-Earth orbit satellites can continue to lose altitude due to atmospheric drag. The ability to safely approach and capture a fast-moving target to raise its orbit lays the foundation for future satellite rescue and decommissioning missions.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublic-Private Partnership Model\u003c/strong\u003e: When public agencies such as NASA utilize service spacecraft from private startups, government science missions and the commercial space services market can grow in tandem.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#key-technologies-essential-elements-for-swift-type-rescue-missions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"key-technologies-essential-elements-for-swift-type-rescue-missions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eKey Technologies: Essential Elements for Swift-Type Rescue Missions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#1-precise-orbit-prediction-and-rendezvous\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"1-precise-orbit-prediction-and-rendezvous\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e1. Precise Orbit Prediction and Rendezvous\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eService spacecraft must precisely calculate the target satellite’s position, velocity, attitude, and rotation. The difficulty increases significantly if the target lacks a service docking port or cannot provide cooperative communications.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe required technologies are as follows:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelative navigation: Estimating relative position using radar, LiDAR, optical cameras, star trackers, etc.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAutomatic approach control: Reducing relative velocity with the target while maintaining a collision-avoidance zone\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEmergency disengagement procedures: Immediate separation in the event of unexpected rotation of the target satellite, communication delays, or sensor failures\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#2-robotic-arms-and-grappling\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"2-robotic-arms-and-grappling\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e2. Robotic Arms and Grappling\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot all satellites are designed with repair in mind. Older satellites may lack standard docking adapters. In such cases, the service spacecraft must stabilize the target using robotic arms, clamps, capture devices, or the satellite’s own structural components.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe risks are significant. Improper handling could damage solar panels, antennas, or scientific equipment, and could also generate space debris.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#3-orbit-elevation-and-propellant-management\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"3-orbit-elevation-and-propellant-management\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e3. Orbit Elevation and Propellant Management\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn rescue missions like Swift, the key objective is to safely elevate the target’s orbit. The service spacecraft must calculate the required delta-v based on the combined mass of itself and the target satellite, and control the rotational forces and vibrations generated during propulsion.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#4-risk-management-and-liability\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"4-risk-management-and-liability\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e4. Risk Management and Liability\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile successful in-orbit services increase asset value, failure can result in collisions, debris, and mission loss. Therefore, the following criteria are critical during all pre-mission phases:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccess permissions and the scope of responsibility for the operating entity\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCollision-avoidance procedures and independent verification\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccurate data sharing on the target satellite’s status\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSafe orbit or separation procedures in the event of failure\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompliance with international and domestic regulations, including space object registration, liability agreements, and frequency and operating licenses\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#how-is-the-existing-launch-and-discard-model-changing\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-is-the-existing-launch-and-discard-model-changing\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow Is the Existing “Launch-and-Discard” Model Changing?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe traditional satellite business model has largely involved manufacturing and launching satellites, then replacing them with new ones once their design lifespans end. Orbital services are transforming this model in three key ways.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eExisting Model\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eOrbital Service Model\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eImplications of the Change\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMission termination upon failure\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFailure diagnosis and repair possible\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncreased recovery value of satellites\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDisposal upon fuel depletion\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFuel replenishment or external propulsion support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExtended revenue period for high-value satellites\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocus on design life\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOperation based on actual condition\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMore sophisticated asset management\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncrease in space debris\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSupport for orbital transfer and reentry\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eImproved sustainability of the orbital environment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReliance on new launches\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReuse of existing infrastructure\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReduced costs, time, and risk of launch failure\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn other words, satellites are transforming from single-use equipment into “operational infrastructure assets.” This marks an extension into space of the same mindset used to maintain and prolong the service life of aircraft on the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#major-in-orbit-service-missions-and-industry-examples\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"major-in-orbit-service-missions-and-industry-examples\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eMajor In-Orbit Service Missions and Industry Examples\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe table below presents representative examples to help understand the evolution of in-orbit services. Some involve crewed maintenance, some are robotic demonstrations, and others are commercial mission life extensions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eYear\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMission/Operator\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTarget\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMethod\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eResults/Significance\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1993–2009\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNASA Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHubble Space Telescope\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaintenance by the Space Shuttle and astronauts\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical calibration, equipment replacement, and mission life extension. A prime example of successful in-orbit maintenance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1997–1999\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJapan’s ETS-VII\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExperimental satellite\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAutomatic rendezvous and docking, robotic arm experiments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDemonstration of autonomous docking and space robotics operation technologies\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2007\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDARPA Orbital Express\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eASTRO·NEXTSat\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAutomatic docking, refueling, and component replacement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDemonstration of core technologies for unmanned orbital servicing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2020\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNorthrop Grumman MEV-1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntelsat 901\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGEO Communications Satellite Docking and Lifespan Extension\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA leading example of commercial satellite lifespan extension services\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2021\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNorthrop Grumman MEV-2\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntelsat 10-02\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDocking with the GEO satellite during operation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExpansion of docking services with satellites in commercial operation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSince 2021\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAstroscale ELSA-d\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLow-Earth Orbit Capture Demonstration Target\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDemonstration of Magnetic Capture and Proximity Operations\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContributing to the verification of space debris removal and satellite capture technologies\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2024\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDecision to terminate NASA OSAM-1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLandsat 7 planned\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlans to demonstrate refueling, assembly, and manufacturing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eChallenges identified in complex maintenance missions with high cost and schedule risks\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2026 Report\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eKatalyst·NASA Swift Rescue Mission\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeil Gehrels Swift Observatory\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eObjectives: Rendezvous, Grappling, and Orbit Elevation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGrowing interest in the possibility of rescuing and extending the lifespan of low-Earth orbit science observatories. Final results require further verification\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#why-is-extending-the-lifespan-of-scientific-missions-so-valuable\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-is-extending-the-lifespan-of-scientific-missions-so-valuable\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy Is Extending the Lifespan of Scientific Missions So Valuable?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpace telescopes and high-energy observatories are not merely devices for taking “new pictures.” The longer they operate, the greater the continuity and comparability of their data.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#the-value-of-data-generated-by-long-term-observations\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-value-of-data-generated-by-long-term-observations\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe Value of Data Generated by Long-Term Observations\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTime-domain astronomy\u003c/strong\u003e: It enables the rapid detection of phenomena that suddenly brighten, such as gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, and tidal disruption events.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMulti-wavelength follow-up observations\u003c/strong\u003e: Missions like Swift provide observation alerts to other ground-based and space-based telescopes, serving as a starting point for collaborative research.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsistent Instrument Baseline\u003c/strong\u003e: Accumulating data over several years using the same observational equipment facilitates the analysis of long-term changes.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncreased Probability of Detecting Rare Events\u003c/strong\u003e: The longer the observation period, the higher the likelihood of discovering rare events in space.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe discovery of ancient quasars by the Euclid space telescope and the observations of galactic centers by the Webb telescope—both reported in the same week of 2026—can be viewed in this context. The longer high-performance space infrastructure operates stably, the greater the cumulative value of the scientific data.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#industrial-implications-of-collaboration-between-private-startups-and-nasa\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"industrial-implications-of-collaboration-between-private-startups-and-nasa\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIndustrial Implications of Collaboration Between Private Startups and NASA\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrbital services are not a single technology but an industrial ecosystem spanning satellite operations, robotics, propulsion, insurance, defense, and space traffic management. Collaboration between NASA and private companies can foster growth in the following markets.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#1-satellite-lifespan-extension-market\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"1-satellite-lifespan-extension-market\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e1. Satellite Lifespan Extension Market\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn particular, geostationary communication satellites have high manufacturing and launch costs, and fuel often limits their lifespan. If external service spacecraft take over attitude and orbital maintenance, the operational period of these satellites—which generates revenue—can be extended.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#2-space-debris-reduction-market\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"2-space-debris-reduction-market\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e2. Space Debris Reduction Market\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServices that safely re-enter end-of-life satellites into Earth’s atmosphere or move them to graveyard orbits reduce orbital congestion. This is critical for commercial satellite constellations, scientific missions, and crewed space activities alike.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#3-national-security-and-dual-use-technology\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"3-national-security-and-dual-use-technology\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e3. National Security and Dual-Use Technology\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRendezvous and capture technologies can be used to rescue malfunctioning satellites, but they also have dual-use capabilities that allow access to or interference with other countries’ satellites. Therefore, transparent operational norms, clearly defined mission objectives, and international confidence-building measures are necessary.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#business-models-and-revenue-structures\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"business-models-and-revenue-structures\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eBusiness Models and Revenue Structures\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBusiness Model\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCustomers\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRevenue Logic\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eKey Risks\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLifecycle Extension Contracts\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTelecommunications satellite operators, governments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecuring a revenue period until replacement with a new satellite\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDocking failure, insurance costs, regulatory approval\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRescue and Recovery Missions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eScientific institutions, governments, satellite operators\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePreventing loss of high-value assets\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUncertainty regarding the target satellite’s condition\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpace Debris Removal\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGovernments, orbital management agencies, satellite constellation operators\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRegulatory compliance and reduction of collision risks\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUncertainty regarding who bears the costs\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInspection and Status Assessment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSatellite operators, insurance companies\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProviding close-up imagery and status data\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrivacy and security sensitivities\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStandard Service Modules\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSatellite manufacturers, operators\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCreating an ecosystem of designs that can be maintained in the future\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDelays in standardization, increased initial costs\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#why-standardization-is-important\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-standardization-is-important\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy Standardization Is Important\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor orbital services to become a large-scale industry, satellites must be designed to be serviceable from the outset. Just as cars have standard diagnostic ports and tow points, satellites require docking adapters, fueling interfaces, grappling points, and serviceable module designs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs serviceable designs become more widespread, service missions can become safer and more cost-effective. Conversely, if capture points are unclear—as was the case with older satellites—customized rescue equipment and risk assessments are required for each mission.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#risks-and-limitations\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"risks-and-limitations\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eRisks and Limitations\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn-orbit servicing is not a solution to every problem. The following limitations must also be considered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEconomic Feasibility\u003c/strong\u003e: The cost of launching and operating a service spacecraft must be lower than the cost of replacing the satellite with a new one.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTechnical Difficulty\u003c/strong\u003e: Satellites that are spinning or damaged are difficult to capture.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiability Issues\u003c/strong\u003e: If debris or a collision occurs during the service process, determining liability becomes complicated.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePotential for Military Misinterpretation\u003c/strong\u003e: Close-proximity operation technology could be misinterpreted as surveillance or interference technology.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSchedule Risk\u003c/strong\u003e: If the target satellite’s orbital descent rate is too fast, there may not be enough time to prepare for the rescue mission.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#conclusion\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"conclusion\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Swift rescue mission symbolizes the shift toward viewing satellites not as “disposable items” but as “space infrastructure that can be repaired and extended.” In-orbit servicing has the potential to extend the data lifespan of scientific observatories, enhance the economic viability of commercial satellites, and reduce the problem of space debris.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the conditions for success are clear. Precise rendezvous and capture technologies, safe orbital ascent capabilities, transparent operational guidelines, serviceable satellite design standards, and a liability framework that accounts for the possibility of failure must all be developed in tandem. The final outcome of the Swift case and subsequent verification will serve as a key indicator of the future reliability of the low-Earth orbit rescue services market.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Orbital services","Satellite repair","NASA","Swift","Space industry"],"faqs":[{"question":"What is orbital service?","answer":"Orbital services refer to the technologies and businesses that support the inspection, capture, docking, refueling, orbit change, repair, and decommissioning of satellites already deployed in space."},{"question":"What is the purpose of the Swift rescue mission?","answer":"According to reports, the goal is to approach and capture the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory as it descends, raise its orbit to delay the risk of reentry, and extend the duration of its scientific mission."},{"question":"Why are they trying to repair the old satellite instead of launching a new one?","answer":"Building and launching a new satellite is costly and time-consuming, and there is a risk of failure. If an existing satellite is still producing useful data, extending its lifespan may be a faster and more cost-effective option."},{"question":"Can orbital services reduce space debris?","answer":"It is possible. The risk of long-term debris can be reduced by moving end-of-life satellites into a safe disposal orbit or by inducing atmospheric reentry. However, strict safety procedures are necessary to ensure that the service process itself does not cause collisions or create debris."},{"question":"What is the most challenging aspect of orbital services?","answer":"Precision rendezvous and capturing uncooperative targets are particularly challenging. If the target satellite is rotating or lacks a docking port, relative navigation, robotic arm control, and collision avoidance all become highly complex problems."},{"question":"What is the difference between Hubble maintenance and modern orbital services?","answer":"Hubble is an example of a manned service mission in which the Space Shuttle and astronauts performed maintenance in person. Modern orbital services are evolving toward robotic spacecraft that automatically or remotely approach, dock, tow, and refuel spacecraft."},{"question":"Are orbital services already in commercial use?","answer":"That's right. Northrop Grumman's Mission Extension Vehicle is known as a prime example of a commercial initiative that docked with a geostationary communications satellite to provide a mission extension service."},{"question":"Why has orbital service technology become a national security issue?","answer":"Technology for approaching and capturing other satellites is useful for rescue and repair operations, but if used maliciously, it could lead to surveillance or interference. Therefore, transparent operational guidelines and accountability frameworks are essential."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.livescience.com/space/astronomy/nasa-launches-bold-mission-to-rescue-a-falling-space-telescope-before-it-crashes-to-earth","title":"Live Science report on NASA's mission to rescue a falling space telescope","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.investing.com/news/economy-news/space-startup-katalyst-launches-orbital-rescue-mission-for-aging-nasa-observatory-4775255","title":"Investing.com report on the Katalyst orbital rescue mission for a NASA observatory","type":"source"},{"url":"https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/science-news/2026/07/06/esas-euclid-space-telescope-finds-universes-most-ancient-quasars/","title":"NASA Science News on ESA's Euclid and Ancient Quasars","type":"source"},{"url":"https://phys.org/news/2026-07-webb-uncovers-shrouded-heart-centaurus.html","title":"Phys.org report on Webb's observations of Centaurus","type":"source"},{"url":"https://science.nasa.gov/mission/swift/","title":"NASA Swift Mission Page","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":98,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6OTQyLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ee3b2919c3a355c18caec42948f97db4447c38d6/ai-f34d0efd.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_image","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"지구 궤도에서 로봇팔로 위성을 붙잡은 서비스 우주선","caption":"서비스 우주선이 로봇팔로 위성을 잡고 궤도 수리를 수행하는 장면이다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Servicing spacecraft using a robotic arm to grasp a satellite above Earth","caption":"A servicing spacecraft uses a robotic arm to work on a satellite in orbit.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"地球上空でロボットアームが衛星をつかむ軌道サービス機","caption":"軌道上でサービス機がロボットアームを使い衛星を整備している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Nave de servicio orbital sujetando un satélite con un brazo robótico sobre la Tierra","caption":"Una nave de servicio usa un brazo robótico para atender un satélite en órbita.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Wahana servis orbit mencengkeram satelit dengan lengan robot di atas Bumi","caption":"Wahana servis menggunakan lengan robot untuk menangani satelit di orbit.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Nave de serviço orbital segurando um satélite com braço robótico sobre a Terra","caption":"Uma nave de serviço usa um braço robótico para reparar um satélite em órbita.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"地球上空一艘軌道服務太空船以機械臂抓住衛星","caption":"軌道服務太空船正用機械臂協助衛星進行在軌維護。","description":null}}},{"id":99,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6OTQ4LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--9222129eb31f901a25994948802a631d15336372/ai-e0579692.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_image","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"지구 궤도에서 로봇 팔 위성이 여러 위성을 수리하고 우주 쓰레기를 피하는 일러스트","caption":"궤도 서비스 위성이 지구 주변에서 고장 위성 수리와 잔해 위험 관리를 수행하는 장면이다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Robotic servicing satellite repairs spacecraft in Earth orbit while debris and risk icons appear","caption":"The illustration shows orbital servicing around Earth, including satellite repair, debris hazards, and monitoring.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"地球軌道でロボットアーム付き衛星が複数の衛星を修理し、宇宙ごみを避けるイラスト","caption":"地球周回軌道で衛星の修理や宇宙ごみへの対応を行う軌道サービスを描いている。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Satélite de servicio con brazos robóticos repara naves en órbita terrestre junto a basura espacial","caption":"La ilustración muestra servicios en órbita alrededor de la Tierra, con reparación de satélites y riesgos de desechos.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Satelit servis berlengan robot memperbaiki wahana di orbit Bumi dengan ancaman sampah antariksa","caption":"Ilustrasi ini menggambarkan layanan orbit di sekitar Bumi, termasuk perbaikan satelit dan pemantauan puing.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Satélite de serviço com braços robóticos repara naves na órbita da Terra perto de detritos espaciais","caption":"A ilustração mostra serviços orbitais ao redor da Terra, com reparo de satélites e riscos de detritos.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"配備機械臂的服務衛星在地球軌道維修多顆衛星並避開太空碎片","caption":"這張插圖呈現地球周圍的軌道服務，包括衛星維修、碎片風險與監測。","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-07-09T11:06:27+09:00","updated_at":"2026-07-09T11:06:27+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/nasa-swift-on-orbit-servicing-satellite-repair-industry"}