Summary
The UK’s oldest satellite, Skynet-1A, launched in 1969, has mysteriously shifted from its original orbit over Africa to a high-risk position over the Americas.
It’s suspected that in the 1970s, Skynet-1A was intentionally moved west, possibly by U.S. controllers, but records confirming who made this decision and why are missing.
Now inactive, the satellite poses collision risks to active satellites, as it occupies a congested orbit at 105 degrees West longitude.
The UK may eventually need to consider relocating Skynet-1A or removing it altogether to mitigate risks from space debris.
Shit! I forgot my iPod in the engine bay. Could I have until next week? My spaceship is at the North Pole chasing ruzzians. It’s a mission, what can I say. I’ll be up there Saturday and I’ll get my iPod and get out of your way. I can give the old rust can a kick for good measure. Or heck, I could fill it with random pyrotechnics so we can all enjoy. Like having a view of war but in space… from the ground.