The mission saw Katalyst Space’s LINK spacecraft launched aboard a Pegasus rocket from Kwajalein Atoll, supporting NASA’s efforts to prolong the service life of the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The launch marked the 46th flight of the Pegasus system, highlighting the platform’s continued relevance for specialised missions requiring rapid deployment, precision orbital insertion and flexible launch operations.
Unlike conventional ground-launched rockets, Pegasus is carried to high altitude beneath Northrop Grumman’s Stargazer L-1011 aircraft before being released at approximately 41,000 feet. Once clear of the aircraft, the three-stage rocket ignites and delivers its payload into low-Earth orbit, providing access to trajectories that are often difficult or impractical for traditional launch systems.
According to Northrop Grumman, the air-launch approach enables missions to be prepared and executed on compressed timelines while reducing reliance on extensive ground infrastructure. The company said Pegasus can be assembled, tested and launched within months, making it well suited to responsive space missions where speed and orbital flexibility are critical.
“Ready for launch in under eight months, Pegasus is the go-to choice for missions that need to get off the ground now," said Wes Collier, vice president of launch systems at Northrop Grumman.
“Its air-launch design and proven Orion motors mean payloads can get to orbits that are harder for other rockets to reach.”
Since entering service in 1990 as the world’s first privately developed orbital launch vehicle, Pegasus has deployed almost 100 satellites into low-Earth orbit. Powered throughout its three flight stages by Northrop Grumman’s proven Orion solid rocket motors, the system continues to offer a unique launch capability that can operate from a wide range of locations with relatively modest support requirements.
The latest mission also reinforces Northrop Grumman’s longstanding relationship with NASA’s Swift program.
The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory was designed and built at the company’s facility in Gilbert, Arizona, before launching in 2004 with an expected operational life of just two years. More than two decades later, the observatory continues to deliver valuable scientific data, significantly exceeding its original mission objectives.
Northrop Grumman also continues to provide operational support for the spacecraft, underscoring the company’s ongoing role in sustaining one of NASA’s longest-serving and most scientifically productive orbital observatories.
The successful Pegasus mission demonstrates how responsive launch systems and innovative servicing technologies can help maximise the lifespan of valuable space assets, reducing replacement costs while enabling continued scientific discovery.
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