Boeing's Communications Satellite iS-33e Breaks Up in Orbit, Deepening Company Crises

A communications satellite developed by the troubled aerospace giant Boeing has disintegrated in orbit, leading to the confirmation of a "total loss" of the iS-33e satellite by its operator, Intelsat. This incident has significantly impacted customers across Europe, Africa, and parts of the Asia-Pacific region.

In response to the satellite's breakup, Intelsat is conducting "a comprehensive analysis" to understand the circumstances surrounding the failure. Boeing has been navigating multiple crises recently, including a labor strike affecting its commercial aircraft division and challenges with its Starliner spacecraft.

Intelsat stated, "We are coordinating with the satellite manufacturer, Boeing, and government agencies to analyze data and observations." However, Boeing refrained from making direct comments about the incident, instead directing inquiries to Intelsat’s statements.

The U.S. Department of Defense’s space-tracking platform, SpaceTrack, has confirmed the breakup, noting that the U.S. Space Forces are currently monitoring approximately 20 fragments associated with the satellite.

In another troubling development for Boeing, two astronauts remain stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) after their Starliner capsule, which they arrived in June, was deemed unfit for the return journey. They are scheduled to return to Earth aboard a spacecraft manufactured by SpaceX next year.

Adding to Boeing’s woes, over 30,000 workers are currently striking in its commercial airplane division, with union members set to vote on the company's latest offer, which includes a substantial 35% pay increase over the next four years.

Last week, Boeing announced plans to seek up to $35 billion (£27 billion) in new funding and revealed intentions to lay off approximately 17,000 employees, constituting about 10% of its workforce, starting in November.

This series of setbacks follows Boeing's agreement in July to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge and pay at least $243.6 million after violating a 2021 deferred prosecution deal related to two tragic 737-MAX accidents that resulted in the loss of 346 lives over five years ago.

As Boeing grapples with these challenges, the implications for its future operations and reputation in the aerospace industry remain uncertain.