Another fault as Boeing satellite breaks up in space

23rd October 2024

Harry Fowle

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A Boeing satellite has broken up in orbit dealing another blow to the aerospace company which has been grappling with multiple challenges.

The satellite's operator, Intelsat, confirmed the complete loss of iS-33e, which disrupted services across Europe, Africa, and parts of the Asia-Pacific. In response, Intelsat stated it had initiated a "comprehensive analysis" to investigate the failure.

Boeing, already facing numerous issues, including a strike affecting its commercial aircraft division and setbacks with its Starliner spacecraft, found itself under further scrutiny. In a statement, Intelsat said: "We are coordinating with the satellite manufacturer, Boeing, and government agencies to analyse data and observations." Boeing did not directly address the incident, instead referring inquiries to Intelsat.

The US Department of Defence's space-tracking service, SpaceTrack, confirmed the satellite's disintegration. An alert on the platform noted that US Space Forces were currently monitoring approximately 20 fragments from the satellite.

The Boeing spiral continues

This incident adds to Boeing's ongoing difficulties, including a situation involving two astronauts stranded at the International Space Station (ISS). They arrived in June aboard a Boeing Starliner capsule, which was later deemed unfit for their return journey. These astronauts are expected to return to Earth next year aboard a SpaceX spacecraft.

Additionally, Boeing has been managing labour unrest, with over 30,000 workers striking at its commercial plane division since last month. Union members are due to vote on the company's latest proposal, which includes a 35% pay increase over four years, on Wednesday.

Compounding these issues, Boeing recently sought up to $35bn (£27bn) in new funding, while also announcing plans to lay off 17,000 employees—around 10% of its workforce—starting in November.

In a separate matter, Boeing agreed in July to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge. The plea related to violations of a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement, stemming from two nearly identical crashes of 737-MAX aircraft, which resulted in 346 fatalities more than five years ago. The company is expected to pay at least $243.6m as part of the settlement.