Mystery Deepens as UK's Oldest Satellite Skynet-1A Relocates Unexpectedly

TL;DR Summary
The UK's oldest satellite, Skynet-1A, launched in 1969, has mysteriously moved to a new position in its geostationary orbit, raising concerns about potential collisions with other satellites. The satellite's unexpected drift to a 'gravity well' at 105 degrees West longitude is puzzling scientists, as it defies expected orbital mechanics. This shift poses a risk of collision, contributing to the growing space junk problem. Efforts are underway to develop spacecraft capable of removing defunct satellites to prevent scenarios like the Kessler syndrome, where space debris collisions could escalate into a major crisis.
Topics:science#geostationary-orbit#kessler-syndrome#satellites#science-and-technology#skynet-1a#space-junk
- Scientists Puzzled by Military Satellite That Appears to Have Been Moved to a Distant Location Futurism
- Skynet-1A: Military Spacecraft Launched 55 Years Ago Has Been Moved By Persons Unknown IFLScience
- Skynet-1A: Why did the UK's oldest space satellite end up thousands of miles from where it should have been? BBC.com
- Mystery of UK’s oldest satellite deepens as Skynet-1A defies expected orbit Yahoo! Voices
- Britain’s Oldest Satellite On The Move: A Space Curiosity Hackaday
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