Satellite could plummet to Earth

[Cyborgmatt]

Coming soon to an ebay website near you.

A "large" US spy satellite has gone out of control and is expected to crash to Earth some time in late February or March, government sources say.

Officials speaking on condition of anonymity said the satellite had lost power and propulsion, and could contain hazardous materials.

The White House said it was monitoring the situation.

"We are looking at potential options to mitigate any possible damage this satellite may cause," said Gordon Johndroe, who speaks for the US National Security Council.

Questioned by The Associated Press, he would not be drawn on whether the US would try to destroy the satellite, perhaps with a missile.

An unnamed official quoted by AP said the US government was keeping lawmakers and other countries abreast of the situation.

The satellite contains the rocket fuel hydrazine, a government official told AP on condition of anonymity.

A colourless liquid with an ammonia-like odour, the fuel is a toxic chemical and can cause harm to anyone who comes in contact with it.

BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Satellite could plummet to Earth

[zeox]

great. wonder where it's going to land

[-Gamah]

meh, should be a pretty fireball as it goes poof in the sky.

[TheRussian]

It would be cool if it hit the White House

[Rookie103]

Sounds like fun. Maybe we'll get a day off school.

[Mooglar]

Hey guys, big piece of burning metal shit in my backyard.

Lots of radiation and shit.

:3.

[Qwiggalo]

Umm, that's normal if you're living in China.

[Brooksie]

haha owned.

just send a nuke there. sorted.