WASHINGTON — The Northrop Grumman-built Eutelsat 5 West B satellite launched Oct. 9 has been unable to activate one of its two solar arrays, a problem which, if not resolved, will likely render the satellite a total loss. It is insured for 173 million euros ($192.4 million).
Industry officials said the satellite would be useless to owner Eutelsat with only one functioning solar array -- the other has been deployed and is working -- as it would not have sufficient power to operate the spacecraft and generate revenue.
To view the entire article, become a subscriber!
