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Can we refuel satellites?

Refuelling satellites in space is a huge challenge, as most aren't designed for it. Link's mission to grab Swift and boost its orbit is a bit like refuelling, but it's more about extending its life by moving it. True refuelling would involve transferring propellant, which is something engineers are actively working on for future missions.

Stories that explain this

Robot launched to save falling NASA space telescope

Questions this opens up

How do robots refuel? Why is fuel so heavy? What is orbital debris?

Related explainers

Why don't satellites crash? How long do satellites last? How do satellites get fuel? What is atmospheric drag? How high is space? Who is Link the robot? What is orbital decay? What is orbital velocity?

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