Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Defunct Spy Satellite Falling From Orbit

Posted by kdawson on from the cue-the-chicken-little-jokes dept.

dnormant, among other readers, sent us word that a US spy satellite has lost power and propulsion and could hit the Earth in late February or March. Government officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret. None of the coverage speculates on how big the satellite is, but Wikipedia claims that US spy satellites in the KH-11 class, launched up to the mid-90s, are about the size of the Hubble — which is 13 meters long and weighs over 11,000 kg. "The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down... A senior government official said that lawmakers and other nations are being kept apprised of the situation."

3 of 312 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Jesus... by Deadstick · · Score: 1, Redundant
    Seems to me that they'd want to keep as low a profile as possible, which would eliminate the large profile

    Ummm, why? Are you under the impression an artificial satellite can hide from radars and telescopes?

    rj

  2. Re:here it is by Scutter · · Score: 0, Redundant

    Note, no solar panels.

    The flat, rectangular bits on the top and bottom in that first link sure look like solar panels to me.

    --

    "Tell me doctor, with all of your defenses, are there any provisions for an attack by killer bees?"
  3. Finally a use for our anti-missile defense system! by BadEvilYoda · · Score: 0, Redundant

    Since, generally speaking, spy satellites are considered the most closely guarded secrets of both the US and any other nation producing them, rest assured that this will never be allowed to hit the ground before being blown into a million pieces. If an ocean-ditch isn't in the cards, since it appears they've lost all control of the satellite and are at the mercy of probability during the deorbit, the US will not let it re-enter and land somewhere (even in pieces) where another country could examine the wreckage. (and yes, I'm including allied countries.) Our "anti-ballistic missile defense system" may get its first real-world test! Alternatively, if it does land, a B-2 will certainly turn the landing zone into a smoking many-thousand degree crater seconds or minutes later. It doesn't matter if it's ten year old tech - no one else is going to be getting their hands on it if the US has anything to say about it. (and yes, I'm including if it lands in a populated area.) If it can't be recovered covertly, it will be destroyed overtly.