Galaxy 15

Intelsat's Galaxy 15 satellite stopped communicating with the ground April 5. Since then it has drifted out of its assigned slot in geostationary orbit, making it a risk to other satellites occupying other slots in that orbit. Attempts to regain control of the satellite, or simply to shut it down, have so far failed.

Collision with another satellite doesn't seem to be a concern, but Galaxy 15 is still fully operational and broadcasting, which means if it comes too close to another satellite signals from Galaxy 15 could interfere with the work of that satellite. Intelsat is currently working with other satellite companies and builders of satellites, including Orbital Sciences, builder of Galaxy 15, to try to resolve the situation.

If nothing else works, Intelsat says Galaxy 15 will lose its orientation in space in July or August. At that point, its solar cells will no longer be positioned to harvest energy from the Sun, and the wandering satellite will run out of power and shut down.