Skynet-1A, a British satellite launched in 1969 and now inactive, is causing confusion as it drifts away from its expected position under Earth’s gravitational pull.
Skynet-1A was once a vital part of the UK’s telecommunications network. This cylindrical satellite, weighing 0.5 tons, was launched to Eastern Africa, operating in geostationary orbit and supporting military communications. After ceasing operations, gravity was expected to pull it eastward towards the Indian Ocean. However, experts have discovered that the satellite is currently flying over the Americas at an altitude of 36,000 km, as reported by Interesting Engineering on November 13.
Simulation of the Skynet-1A satellite launched in 1969. (Photo: BBC/Gerry Fletcher).
The current position of Skynet-1A is not the result of passive drift. According to BBC, it is possible that the satellite received a command to activate its thrusters in the mid-1970s to move westward. The mystery remains as to who issued this command and why.
“The satellite is currently located in the “gravitational well” at 105 degrees west longitude, moving back and forth like a marble rolling in a bowl. Unfortunately, this brings it dangerously close to other satellites,” said Dr. Stuart Eves, a space consultant.
Despite thorough investigations, Eves could not find information regarding the final days of Skynet-1A. The satellite was originally developed in the United States by the now-defunct aerospace company Philco Ford. It was launched into space by a Delta rocket from the U.S. Air Force in 1969. At that time, it marked a significant advancement for British telecommunications, enabling secure military communications to distant locations such as Singapore.
Initially, the U.S. controlled Skynet-1A, testing British software before transferring control to the Royal Air Force (RAF). Some official documents indicate that operational control was transferred back to the U.S. in June 1977.
Skynet-1A was supposed to be moved to a “graveyard” orbit, where old satellites pose no collision risk. However, it now resides in an orbit that could collide with active satellites, highlighting the dangers of space debris. The European Space Agency (ESA) estimates that there are 130 million pieces of space debris measuring 1 mm to 1 cm, over 1,100,000 pieces ranging from 1 cm to 10 cm, and 40,500 pieces larger than 10 cm orbiting Earth.
The UK Ministry of Defence is closely monitoring Skynet-1A. Other satellite operators have also been alerted to potential close encounters. However, the UK may need to consider actively relocating the satellite to a safer orbit to reduce collision risks.
