6 Spy Satellites Stray Out of Orbit

Six “spy mailbox” satellites have strayed into the wrong orbit, but authorities in Moscow said they can still be used to transmit secret messages to and from intelligence agents. The six satellites--reportedly designed for the intelligence branch of the Russian Defense Ministry--were launched simultaneously Tuesday. All six went astray because of an incorrect command, the Interfax news agency quoted an unidentified military official as saying. The military still intends to use the satellites but will have to adjust some settings, officials said.