The story of Skynet-1A is a curious one. Launched in 1969 to a geostationary orbit over Eastern Africa, this British military communications satellite was meant to drift into an orbital graveyard after its operational life ended. Instead, it mysteriously reappeared thousands of miles away, orbiting over the Americas. Why? And who moved it?
Skynet-1A’s intended final destination was a specific point in its orbit, far from active satellites and the risk of collision with other defunct spacecraft. However, instead of passively drifting to this designated location, someone, for reasons unknown, commanded the satellite to a new position 22,369 miles (36,000 km) above the Americas, according to a BBC report. This new location increases the risk of collision with other space debris, raising concerns about the long-term safety of the space environment.
The mystery of Skynet-1A’s relocation, unearthed by BBC reporter Jonathan Amos, points to a deliberate action. The distance the satellite traveled indicates that its thrusters were fired purposefully, moving it westward. The investigation suggests that this maneuver likely occurred in the 1970s, and surprisingly, the Americans might be behind it.
Skynet-1A, though a British satellite, has a significant American history. Manufactured in the U.S. and launched aboard a U.S. Air Force Delta rocket, the satellite was initially tested by the Americans before control was transferred to the Royal Air Force. Documents reviewed by the BBC indicate that control of Skynet-1A might have been returned to the U.S. in June 1977, with the Americans potentially responsible for the satellite’s final commands and its unexpected relocation.
This westward movement placed Skynet-1A over the Americas, a location typically occupied by satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO), which remain fixed over a specific point on Earth’s surface. The final maneuver should have boosted Skynet-1A to a higher altitude, the designated orbital graveyard, mitigating the risk of collisions. Now, however, the UK Ministry of Defence closely monitors the deceased satellite, vigilant against potential collision threats in its unexpected location.
The incident highlights the importance of knowing the location of space objects, both in geosynchronous orbit and low Earth orbit (LEO). Tracking space debris is crucial for preventing collisions and maintaining a safe space environment. The Department of Defense’s global Space Surveillance Network currently tracks over 27,000 pieces of orbital debris, highlighting the growing concern about the risks posed by space junk.
While orbital debris wasn’t a major issue in 1969 when Skynet-1A launched, it’s a significant problem today. This case underscores the need for continuous monitoring of all space objects, even defunct satellites, to ensure a sustainable and safe space environment. The unexpected journey of Skynet-1A serves as a reminder of the complexity and evolving challenges of space operations and the importance of responsible space traffic management.
