Summary
The UK’s oldest satellite, Skynet-1A, launched in 1969, has mysteriously shifted from its original orbit over Africa to a high-risk position over the Americas.
It’s suspected that in the 1970s, Skynet-1A was intentionally moved west, possibly by U.S. controllers, but records confirming who made this decision and why are missing.
Now inactive, the satellite poses collision risks to active satellites, as it occupies a congested orbit at 105 degrees West longitude.
The UK may eventually need to consider relocating Skynet-1A or removing it altogether to mitigate risks from space debris.
The way I read it is that it’s old news, but who did it still isn’t publicized. I’m sure some people know who did it, just not the public.
Given that it was done in the 70s, probably by people who were at least in their 40s at the time, it’s very possible that they’re all dead by now.