The W5 satellite has lost power generation by one of its two solar panels, maker Thales Alenia Space announced.

Operated by Eutelsat Communications, the W5 power loss occurred June 16, Thales stated, well over five years after its launch Nov. 22, 2002.

An inquiry board immediately convened, and after extensive studies reported a definitive loss of one of the two W5 solar panels.

Eutelsat, working with experts from Thales Alenia Space, reconfigured the satellite to cope with the loss of onboard power, leading to four transponders being shut down.

This glitch cut the satellite’s remaining service life, which should be shorter than three years.

The companies also prepared for the upcoming eclipse, when reduced sunlight will further reduce W5 electrical power, in order to guarantee correct satellite operation during this period.

To maintain current operating conditions, another transponder will be shut down, thus providing the additional margin needed for thermal control and battery charging.

The Eutelsat W5 satellite is based on an SB3000 platform and is fitted with 24 Ku-band transponders.