Maxar Seeks to Deorbit WorldView-4, After Gyros Failure

Citing failure of WorldView-4's control movement gyros in January, Maxar asked the FCC International Bureau for approval to lower the satellite from its current operation arc of 350-450 km to 100-400 km as it begins end-of-life maneuvers. In an application Thursday, Maxar said it still has control of the satellite. It said on completion of this de-orbit phase, it will end communications with the satellite as it begins to experience atmospheric drag.