Saturday, January 26, 2008

Heads up!

Defunct Spy Satellite Falling From Orbit

A large U.S. spy satellite has lost power and propulsion and could hit the Earth in late February or March, government officials said Saturday.

The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down, they said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret.

"Appropriate government agencies are monitoring the situation," said Gordon Johndroe, a spokesman for the National Security Council. "Numerous satellites over the years have come out of orbit and fallen harmlessly. We are looking at potential options to mitigate any possible damage this satellite may cause."

He would not comment on whether it is possible for the satellite to be perhaps shot down by a missile. He said it would be inappropriate to discuss any specifics at this time.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Missile defense ala China last year?

Hazardous materials = uranium/plutonium?

Heads up indeed!

Mac said...

You have to wonder. If this crashed and is sufficiently serious, the government might play it off as a UFO crash, or at least sow rumors to that effect. That would certainly kill the story.

Anonymous said...

I could say where I'd like to see it come down but I won't for fear of Federal prosecution....

Anonymous said...

It contains hydrazine, a rocket fuel which could be potentially hazardous if it comes into contact with anyone. Now plutonium or uranium, what would be the use of that on a satellite?

Anonymous said...

Plutonium "batteries" (actually very slow fission) act as a long-term power supply.