# derelict satellite

> an artificial satellite that has been abandoned, neglected, decommissioned, or has become nonfunctional but remains in an orbit of any kind in space

**Wikidata**: [Q108657366](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108657366)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/derelict-satellite

## Summary
A derelict satellite is an artificial satellite that has been abandoned, decommissioned, or has become nonfunctional but remains in orbit around Earth or another celestial body. These objects contribute to space debris and can pose risks to active satellites and spacecraft.

## Key Facts
- Derelict satellites are human-made objects that were once functional but are now abandoned or nonfunctional in orbit.
- They are a subclass of both space derelicts and artificial satellites.
- Examples include decommissioned communications satellites like Eutelsat I F-1, Ciel-2, and Türksat 2A.
- Some derelict satellites, such as the Himawari series, were originally meteorological satellites.
- These satellites can remain in orbit for decades, contributing to the growing problem of space debris.

## FAQs
### Q: What is a derelict satellite?
A: A derelict satellite is an artificial satellite that is no longer functional or has been abandoned but remains in orbit. These satellites are part of the broader category of space debris.

### Q: What are some examples of derelict satellites?
A: Examples include Eutelsat I F-1 (a European communications satellite), Ciel-2 (a Canadian communications satellite), and Türksat 2A (a Turkish communications satellite).

### Q: Why are derelict satellites a concern?
A: Derelict satellites contribute to space debris, which can collide with active satellites or spacecraft, posing risks to space operations and missions.

### Q: How long can derelict satellites remain in orbit?
A: Derelict satellites can remain in orbit for decades, depending on their altitude and other orbital factors.

### Q: What types of satellites become derelict?
A: Various types of satellites can become derelict, including communications satellites (e.g., Eutelsat series), meteorological satellites (e.g., Himawari series), and navigation satellites (e.g., MTSat series).

## Why It Matters
Derelict satellites are a significant concern in the field of space exploration and satellite operations. As these nonfunctional satellites remain in orbit, they contribute to the growing problem of space debris. This debris can pose serious risks to active satellites, spacecraft, and even the International Space Station, as collisions can cause damage or generate more debris. The presence of derelict satellites highlights the need for better space traffic management and debris mitigation strategies to ensure the sustainability of space activities. Additionally, understanding derelict satellites helps in developing technologies and policies for the safe deorbiting or removal of defunct satellites, thereby reducing the risk of collisions and maintaining a safer space environment.

## Notable For
- Being a significant contributor to space debris, which poses risks to active satellites and spacecraft.
- Including a wide range of satellite types, such as communications, meteorological, and navigation satellites.
- Highlighting the need for improved space traffic management and debris mitigation strategies.
- Serving as examples of the challenges faced in maintaining a sustainable space environment.
- Demonstrating the long-term presence of human-made objects in orbit, even after they are no longer functional.

## Body
### Definition and Classification
A derelict satellite is an artificial satellite that has been abandoned, decommissioned, or has become nonfunctional but remains in orbit. These satellites are classified as a subclass of both space derelicts and artificial satellites. They are part of the broader category of space debris, which includes any human-made object in orbit that no longer serves a useful purpose.

### Examples of Derelict Satellites
Numerous derelict satellites exist in various orbits around Earth. Some notable examples include:
- **Eutelsat I F-1**: A decommissioned European communications satellite.
- **Ciel-2**: A decommissioned Canadian communications satellite.
- **Türksat 2A**: A decommissioned Turkish communications satellite.
- **Himawari series**: Japanese meteorological satellites launched between 1977 and 1989, including Himawari 1, 2, 3, and 4.
- **MTSat series**: Japanese geostationary navigation satellites, including MTSat-1R and MTSat-2.

### Impact on Space Operations
Derelict satellites pose significant risks to active satellites and spacecraft. Collisions with space debris can cause damage, generate more debris, and potentially render active satellites nonfunctional. This risk highlights the importance of space traffic management and debris mitigation strategies to ensure the safety and sustainability of space operations.

### Space Debris and Mitigation
The presence of derelict satellites contributes to the growing problem of space debris. Efforts to mitigate this issue include developing technologies for the safe deorbiting or removal of defunct satellites. International guidelines and policies are also being established to address the challenges posed by space debris and to promote responsible space activities.

## Schema Markup
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