Boeing satellite collapses in space due to ‘anomaly’

The satellite was initially reported to have stopped working due to an “anomaly,” but Intelsat later confirmed it was a “total loss.” “We are coordinating with the satellite manufacturer, Boeing, and government agencies to analyze the data,” the company said, adding that the satellite was not secured.

The US Space Force reported on October 19 that it was tracking about 20 pieces of debris associated with the spacecraft. The department saw no immediate threat but continued to monitor the movement of debris. The reasons for the incident are not specified.

Roscosmos reported on October 22 that it had detected more than 80 fragments of the destroyed Intelsat 33e satellite. The department announced a potential threat to all operating spacecraft, including the Roscosmos orbital group in the geostationary region.

Intelsat 33e was launched in 2016. The satellite provided communications to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australia. Almost immediately after launch, problems arose with movement: the satellite entered orbit late. In 2017, an identified engine failure reduced the expected service life from 15 to 11.5 years. As a result, the device worked for less than nine years.

The net loss of Boeing Co., one of the world’s largest manufacturers of space and aviation equipment, quadrupled in the first three quarters of 2024. According to the company’s report, it reached $7,952 million. In early trading on October 23, Boeing shares fell 0.61%.

In October, Boeing delayed the launch of its 777X and 767 Freighter planes and began cutting staff. Boeing CEO Robert Kelly Ortberg announced in September the resignation of Boeing Defense, Space and Security Director Ted Colbert, who had worked for the corporation for more than 15 years.

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