The robot NASA hired to lift a orbital telescope tumbled out of control

NASA says the spacecraft has tumbled out of control after two of its three reaction wheels failed. The agency also reported problems with one thruster system, further limiting the vehicle’s ability to stabilize and maneuver.

The incident highlights the fragility of spacecraft attitude-control systems, especially for missions involving close operations around valuable orbital assets. It could raise scrutiny of on-orbit servicing plans as agencies and companies look to extend satellite and telescope lifetimes instead of replacing them.