clipped from: news.bbc.co.uk   
Satellite could plummet to Earth

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

A spokesman said "numerous" satellites had come out of orbit and fallen back to Earth harmlessly over the years.

Fuel hazard


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.

John Pike, director of the defense research group GlobalSecurity.org, said an uncontrolled re-entry could risk exposure of US secrets.


Jeffrey Richelson of the National Security Archive, said the satellite is probably a photo reconnaissance satellite.