Feb. 7: Zhongxing-9A propellant exhausted after 4 years and ended its service life. The ZX-9A (ChinaSat-9A) communications satellite was launched towards to geosynchronous transfer orbit in 2017 but a third stage issue left it in a much lower orbit, requiring the satellite to consume its own propellant to reach GEO at 101.4 degrees East. The services it provided are being shifted to ZX-9 (launched 2008, 92.2° E) while a replacement, ZX-9B, is expected to launch before the end of the year for operator China Satcom.