What is the desired outcome for responsible space operations when a satellite reaches the end of its service life or suffers a serious malfunction?

Answer

Initiating a controlled burn-up sequence (planned de-orbiting).

SpaceX includes de-orbiting capabilities allowing satellites to initiate a controlled burn-up sequence, which is the desired outcome for safe disposal.

What is the desired outcome for responsible space operations when a satellite reaches the end of its service life or suffers a serious malfunction?

#Videos

What Happens If SpaceX Starlink Satellites Start Colliding - YouTube

SpacesatellitesdeorbitStarlinkre-entry