NASA's Swift Observatory, a vital space telescope, is currently facing a critical situation. It is gradually descending from its intended **orbit**, meaning it is getting closer to Earth. If it falls too low, it could eventually re-enter the atmosphere and be destroyed. To prevent this, NASA launched a dedicated spacecraft with the mission to push the Swift telescope back into a higher, safer orbit.
However, this rescue mission recently encountered a significant issue. Several days ago, the assisting spacecraft **malfunctioned**. Instead of performing its designated task, it started **tumbling** uncontrollably in space. This unexpected problem poses a serious challenge to the ongoing efforts to save the Swift Observatory, as the spacecraft cannot effectively push the telescope while it is spinning out of control.
Despite this setback, the engineers at NASA are not giving up. They believe that even with the spacecraft's current erratic movement, there is still a chance for the mission to succeed. They are actively working to understand the malfunction and find a way to regain control of the spacecraft. Their hope is to stabilize it and then proceed with the crucial task of boosting the Swift telescope to a higher altitude, thereby extending its operational life and ensuring its continued contribution to scientific discovery.
The curved path in space that an object, like a satellite or planet, follows around a much larger object.
Failed to work properly or operate as it should.
Falling, rolling, or spinning over and over in an uncontrolled way.
What is the main problem Swift Observatory is facing?
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