Disabled satellite tumbles toward Earth
Somebody call Bruce Willis:
A 10-ton American spy satellite has lost power and could hit the Earth in the next few weeks, government officials said today.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. ...
[Gordon Johndroe, a spokesman for the National Security Council, said,] "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 perhaps be shot down by a missile. He said it would be inappropriate to discuss any specifics at this time.
A senior government official said that lawmakers and other nations are being kept apprised of the situation. ...
[John] Pike, director of the defense research group GlobalSecurity.org, estimated that the spacecraft weighs about 10 tons and was the size of a small bus.
See also here.
Is it dangerous to touch something that came from space? Like if this satellite lands in my backyard should I be worried, or can I break a piece off for a souvenier?
Posted by: Sandy Underpants | Jan 28, 2008 2:10:45 AM
The spacecraft contains hydrazine - which is rocket fuel - according to a government official who was not authorized to speak publicly but spoke on condition of anonymity.
Hydrazine, a colorless liquid with an ammonia-like odor, is a toxic chemical and can cause harm to anyone who contacts it.
Plus, there could be aliens 'n' shit livin' on it--maybe mutant bacteria that have been exposed to excessive radiation and become sentient...?
Posted by: Scientizzle | Jan 28, 2008 2:27:06 AM
Still would be a great coffee table piece lol
Posted by: Megan D | Jan 28, 2008 9:39:14 AM
"That's no satellite, it's a [Chinese] battle station":
http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2008/01/spy_satellite_or_chinese_death_1.asp
Posted by: Anonymous Hoosier | Jan 28, 2008 10:32:02 AM
EVERYBODY PANIC
Posted by: jlr | Jan 28, 2008 10:56:51 AM
Wasn't this the Act III plot of that Demi Moore SEAL movie?
Posted by: Klug | Jan 28, 2008 1:19:19 PM
Klug-
Apparently so...
"The final phase of training (operational readiness exercise) is interrupted and we are to assume is replaced by, an emergency situation that calls for soldiers of their skill and proximity. The situation involves a reconnaissance satellite powered by weapons grade plutonium that fell into the Libyan desert. A team of US Army Rangers is sent to retrieve the plutonium, which they managed, but their evacuation plan fails so O'Neil's team is sent to assist the Ranger team. During the mission, O'Neil displays a definitive ability in leadership and strategy while rescuing the injured Master Chief, who is shot in the leg multiple times during the retreat."
Damn Libyans!
Posted by: Angrier and Angrier | Jan 28, 2008 3:57:16 PM
I for one welcome . . .
Posted by: 4-7 | Jan 28, 2008 5:03:11 PM
Holy s***, there was someone who watched to the end of GI Jane?
Posted by: Anonymous Hoosier | Jan 28, 2008 11:10:12 PM