when does the katalyst nasa rescue launch

The Katalyst NASA rescue mission is scheduled to launch in June 2026. Katalyst described that date as a firm target, and recent reports still place the Pegasus XL launch window in June 2026.

What it is

The mission is a robotic rescue of NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, which is losing altitude and could reenter by the end of 2026.

Launch details

• Launch vehicle: Northrop Grumman Pegasus XL.

• Timing: June 2026.

• Goal: rendezvous with Swift, inspect it, and boost it back to a higher orbit.

Recent context

As of late June 2026, coverage says the spacecraft is already built, tested, and integrated, with launch expected later this month. That means the mission appears to be in its final countdown phase.

If you want, I can also give you the latest status in a one-line forum-style update.