π°οΈ NASA's Swift Observatory back online, but orbit is dropping
NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is operational again after a six-month period in low-drag mode. As of August 26, two of its three main instruments, the X-ray and ultraviolet/optical telescopes, are functioning. A planned orbit boost attempt in July was ultimately canceled due to technical issues. Because of solar activity, the observatory's orbit is decaying rapidly and is expected to drop below a safe altitude soon. It will continue scanning space until its planned atmospheric re-entry later this year.