Dish Network Corp., a leading pay-TV and satellite-technology company, has recently faced an enforcement action for the improper disposal of its EchoStar-7 satellite. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has imposed a fine of $150,000 on Dish Network for failing to de-orbit the satellite in accordance with regulations.
Dish Network, formerly known as EchoStar, underwent a rebranding in 2008 and spun off its technology unit as a separate entity. Both companies were established by Charles Ergen, a billionaire entrepreneur. In August, Ergen successfully steered Dish Network to merge with EchoStar.
According to the FCC, the EchoStar-7 satellite was retired by Dish Network last year but was left floating in orbit at an altitude below the required level specified in its license. Companies are obligated to remove retired equipment from the path of operational satellites.
Dish Network has acknowledged its wrongdoing and has agreed to pay the fine imposed by the FCC. The company has also committed to implementing a compliance plan going forward.
Overall, Dish Network’s violation serves as a significant example of the FCC’s commitment to maintaining order and cleanliness in outer space as satellite technology becomes increasingly prevalent.
Dish Retires EchoStar-7 Satellite Amid Orbital Debris Concerns
Introduction
In 2002, Dish launched the EchoStar-7 satellite with a plan to end its mission at an altitude of 300 kilometers above its operational arc. However, recent developments have forced the company to make adjustments due to the satellite’s dwindling propellant and its inability to adhere to the original orbital-debris mitigation plan.
Mitigation Challenges
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Dish decided to retire the satellite at a disposal orbit located approximately 122 km above the geostationary arc. This falls short of the intended disposal orbit of 300 km, as specified in Dish’s orbital-debris mitigation plan.
Growing Concerns over Space Debris
The increasing number of objects being placed into orbit has raised concerns regarding space debris, as highlighted by the Federation of American Scientists. This includes both spent rocket boosters and active as well as defunct satellites.
The Alarming Figures
A financial analysis conducted by NASA in March shed light on the severity of the situation. It revealed that there could possibly be around 170 million pieces of debris currently in orbit. The presence of this debris not only escalates the costs of space operations due to the need for shielding or maneuvering but also poses a significant threat to the safety of astronauts and satellites. Moreover, it limits future spacecraft launches and may render entire orbits unusable.
Incidents and Impact
A report from the FAS in May disclosed an incident where the International Space Station had to adjust its course to avoid colliding with debris. This incident underscores the urgency to address the issue of orbital debris promptly.
Market Response
The repercussions of these developments have impacted Dish’s stock performance, with a 9% drop recorded on Tuesday alone. Year to date, the stock has fallen by 64%. This stands in stark contrast to the 10% gain recorded by the S&P 500 index (SPX).
It is crucial for relevant stakeholders to collectively address the challenge of orbital debris to ensure the safety and sustainability of space activities in the future.
