Imagine this: A satellite, declared dead nearly 50 years ago, suddenly springs back to life, sending signals from the cold vacuum of space! That's the astonishing story of LES-1, a 'zombie satellite' that defied the odds and continues to intrigue scientists and space enthusiasts alike.
In 1965, the US Air Force and MIT's Lincoln Laboratory launched the Lincoln Experimental Satellites (LES-1 and LES-2). These were pioneers in satellite technology, utilizing the super-high-frequency X-band of the electromagnetic spectrum. Their mission? To test and demonstrate military space communication systems.
But here's where it gets controversial... Unfortunately, the full details are behind a paywall. However, we know that LES-1, launched on February 11, 1965, didn't quite achieve its goals. NASA's History Office explains that a wiring issue prevented it from functioning as planned, and it stopped transmitting in 1967. Its twin, LES-2, fared much better, reaching its intended orbit.
For nearly half a century, LES-1 remained silent, a piece of space junk orbiting Earth. Then, in 2013, an amateur radio astronomer in the UK picked up a signal – it could only be from LES-1! The 'zombie satellite' was back, joining the ranks of spacecraft that mysteriously reactivate after years of silence.
The signal, as described by the discoverer, Phil Williams, faded in and out in a four-second cycle. This was attributed to the satellite tumbling, with its solar panels being blocked by its own engines. Williams noted that this gave the signal a 'ghostly sound' due to fluctuating voltage.
After its revival, a team from the Lincoln Laboratory began monitoring LES-1, recording its signals as it passed over the university campus. Navid Yazdani, leader of the Advanced SATCOM Systems and Operations Group, stated that it was remarkable to see LES-1 still transmitting after so many years. The satellite introduced innovative technologies and techniques that paved the way for future military and civilian systems.
So, what caused this remarkable resurrection? The Lincoln Laboratory suggests a possible electrical short, perhaps due to the degradation of batteries or circuitry, allowing power from the solar cells to reach the transmitter directly.
And this is the part most people miss... The satellite remains in orbit and operational to this day!
What do you think? Is this a sign of advanced technology, or just a quirky anomaly? Could other 'dead' satellites also come back to life? Share your thoughts in the comments!
