According to a US government spokesperson, a US spy satellite has lost power and propulsion is expected to fall back to Earth in late February or early March.
The satellite is classified secret so its not know what type it is nor how large it is, but it might be a KH-11 class satellite, manufactured by Lockheed and launched around 1990. If it is a KH-11 (a “Keyhole-class” reconnaissance satellite), that would make it about the size of the Hubble telescope, so approximately 43 feet long and 24,250 pounds.
“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,” says Gordon Johndroe, spokesman for the National Security Council.
Its not known exactly where it will be falling, but “appropriate government agencies are monitoring the situation.”
[Via Engadget]
