January 2016 photo shows the IS-29e prior to launch Intelsat/archives

January 2016 photo shows the IS-29e prior to launch Intelsat/archives

In a press release published on 18 April, Intelsat explained that the IS-29e propulsion system “experienced damage that caused a leak of the propellant on board the satellite resulting in a service disruption too customers on the satellite”.

“While working to recover the satellite, a second anomaly occurred, after which all efforts to recover the satellite were unsuccessful,” Intelsat added.

The IS-29e communications satellite was designed and manufactured by Boeing and launched on 27 January 2016, aboard an Ariane 5 booster.

According to an Intelsat statement issued at the time of launch, the satellite provided fixed and mobile network operators, and broadband for applications such as enterprise, aeronautical and maritime mobility, and government throughout the Americas.

Space.com reports that the satellite will now drift uncontrolled along its current orbit. It cites T.S. Kelso of operator CelesTrak as saying that there are reports of 13 pieces of associated debris, adding it will be “one more large object to stay on our toes about”.