Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is descending in low Earth orbit after a planned spacecraft rescue was called off. In NASA’s Sept. 25, 2026 update, Swift was about 200 miles (325 kilometers) above Earth; the agency estimated it would reach a difficult-to-operate threshold of 185 miles (300 kilometers) in early to mid-October. That is an operational milestone—not a forecast of the date it will reenter the atmosphere.
Which NASA telescope is falling toward Earth?
The spacecraft is the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, usually called Swift. It is a satellite observatory in low Earth orbit, not a telescope on the ground. Swift studies gamma-ray bursts and other cosmic events across visible, ultraviolet, X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths. Its rapid response is central to its work: after detecting a gamma-ray burst, it can interrupt its schedule and point its X-ray and ultraviolet/optical telescopes toward the event’s afterglow. NASA’s Aug. 28, 2026 update describes the observatory’s restored science operations.
Why is Swift’s orbit getting lower?
Earth’s atmosphere extends, thinly, into low orbit. Drag from that atmosphere gradually slows spacecraft and lowers their orbits unless they have a way to maintain altitude. NASA says recent solar activity heated and expanded the upper atmosphere, increasing drag on Swift and making its descent faster than expected. NASA adjusted the spacecraft’s pointing and instrument operations to reduce drag while preparing for a possible orbit boost. NASA’s Aug. 28 update discusses the drag and operational changes.
What was the rescue plan, and why was it called off?
In September 2025, NASA contracted Katalyst Space Technologies to develop LINK, a robotic servicing spacecraft intended to rendezvous with Swift, capture it and raise it to a higher orbit. On Aug. 19, 2026, NASA and Katalyst said LINK would not attempt the capture and boost because of a continuing attitude-control problem—the system’s difficulty controlling the spacecraft’s orientation. LINK could still attempt rendezvous and proximity operations as a technology demonstration, but that is distinct from rescuing Swift or changing its orbit. NASA’s Swift Boost Mission update outlines the plan and change; the Associated Press report also describes the control issue and reports a NASA contract value of $30 million.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute#1 Best Overall
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE - 2.75 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 4.13 L x 2.75 W x 2.75 H inches. 1:221 Scale. 62 Pieces
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
Swift’s status: what changed in 2026?
| Date | Update |
|---|---|
| Feb. 11, 2026 | NASA said Swift had suspended most science operations to reduce drag while awaiting a boost mission. The Burst Alert Telescope would continue detecting gamma-ray bursts, but the spacecraft would not slew to observe targets with its other telescopes, NASA principal investigator S. Bradley Cenko said. NASA’s Feb. 11 update. |
| Aug. 19, 2026 | NASA and Katalyst said LINK would not capture and boost Swift; rendezvous and proximity operations could still be attempted. NASA’s mission update. |
| Aug. 26, 2026 | Swift’s ultraviolet/optical and X-ray telescopes resumed observations. NASA’s Aug. 28 report. |
| Sept. 18, 2026 | NASA said the Burst Alert Telescope had been calibrated and was detecting gamma rays. NASA’s Sept. 25 status report. |
| Sept. 21, 2026 | Swift resumed automatically repointing its other telescopes after a gamma-ray burst. NASA’s Sept. 25 status report. |
| Sept. 25, 2026 | NASA reported that all three instruments and automatic repointing were back in operation. Swift was about 200 miles (325 kilometers) above Earth; NASA estimated it would reach the 185-mile (300-kilometer) operational threshold in early to mid-October. NASA’s Sept. 25 update. |
Does the October estimate mean Swift will reenter then?
No. NASA’s early-to-mid-October estimate is for crossing 185 miles (300 kilometers), an altitude where Swift’s operations become more difficult and observations are likely to cease. It is not a precise prediction of atmospheric reentry. NASA’s cited update does not establish an exact reentry date. The AP’s Aug. 19 report said Swift’s demise was not expected before October; that was an earlier forecast, not confirmation of a specific date.
Swift’s science activity and its orbital lifetime are related but separate. NASA said restoring science operations accelerated the descent, while those observations allowed the observatory to resume its work. Crossing the operational threshold would affect the mission’s ability to observe; it does not by itself specify when the spacecraft will reenter.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【NO MODEL BUILDING SET】ONLY THE LIGHT KIT FOR SALE, MODEL NOT INCLUDED. This LIGHTING KIT is specially compatible with LEGO 31378 Space Exploration Telescope . MODELS SET Need to be Purchased Separately or Already Owned by Yourselves.
- 【QUALITY GUARANTEE】Lighting set compatible with LEGO 31378 Space Exploration Telescope made of high-quality copper lines and ABS plastic, quality check, can be perfectly hidden & Compatible with LEGO blocks. If have questions withe product, please Let us know anytime.
- 【MULTIPLE PLAY】 Light kit Compatible with LEGO 31378 Space Exploration Telescope can be powered by USB (Voltage less than 5V). The lights will be brighter when powered by USB. Please test each light part before assembling.
- 【LIGHT UP YOUR BLOCKS】Light up corners of the model with gleam, intense lights, you can see the vivid details inside and outside, lights compatible with LEGO 31378 Space Exploration Telescope make blocks glow in the dark. A special arrangement for Fans & Family collections.
- 【STEP-BY-STEP INSTALLATION】Provide detailed video/PDF installation instructions(Online) and step-by-step numbered light bags. Just disassemble a few bricks to install the light fixtures! Parts small and not fragile, DON'T pull wires too hard.
Rank #4
- HOBBY MODEL KITS – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up
- HUBBLE TELESCOPE – 1 Sheet Model with an easy difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3"x2"x2.5"
- APOLLO LUNAR ROVER – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.54" x 1.77" x 2.28"
- APOLLO LUNAR MODULE - 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 2.34" x 2.34" x 2.15"
- MARS ROVER – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.67" x 3.35" x 2.34"
Rank #3
- 【DISTINCTIVE LIGHTS】Experience the stunning visual effect of the JMBricklayer space telescope building set. Gently rotate the lens as the futuristic blue lights instantly illuminate the entire space set. The lights enhance the visual appeal of the space toy, bring the glamour of space technology to life.
- 【EXPLORING SPACE】Ingeniously designed to simulate opening and closing, the operator compartment and base hatch allow you to explore the fun of space as you assemble this space set. This design enhances the interactivity of the space toy and adds more realism to the telescope model.
- 【SPARK YOUR IMAGINATION】Equipped with a variety of cool space accessories such as probe, commemorative plaque and more. Let you experience more fun during assembling. If you're curious about space, this space telescope building set will surely bring you an extraordinary experience.
- 【COOOL AND STUNNING DECORS】Consisting of 995 block parts, this space telescope set contains three layers of structure: the starfinder platform base, the structural axis and the telescope body. Each layer is meticulously designed and constructed to provide a solid base for the space set, giving it a unique look and flair.
- 【WONDERFUL GIFTS】Looking for the ideal present for a space-loving boy? This space telescope building set is the answer! With its innovative design and captivating features, it will delight any young space lovers. Perfect for birthdays or holidays, it's a fantastic gift for adults or kids aged 14+.
Rank #2
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up.
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs.
- HUBBLE TELESCOPE – 1 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 3.00 x 2.00 x 2.50 inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions.
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
