WASHINGTON — A large U.S. spy satellite has lost power and could hit 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, when asked about the situation after it was disclosed by other officials. “We are looking at potential options to mitigate any possible damage this satellite may cause.”
Such an uncontrolled re-entry could risk exposure of secrets, said John Pike, a defense and intelligence expert. Spy satellites typically are disposed of through a controlled re-entry into the ocean so that no one else can access the spacecraft, he said.
Pike also said it’s not likely the satellite could be eliminated by shooting it down with a missile, because that would create debris that would then re-enter the atmosphere.
Pike estimated that the spacecraft weighs about 20,000 pounds and is the size of a small bus. He also said it might contain beryllium, a light metal that, when inhaled, can lead to incurable respiratory problems.
