What often causes the violent tumbling that leads to an uncontrolled breakup?
Answer
The satellite suffering an internal malfunction or being struck by debris.
An unplanned return typically occurs when a satellite loses communication and control due to an internal malfunction or impact from orbital debris, causing it to tumble.

#Videos
What Happens If SpaceX Starlink Satellites Start Colliding - YouTube
Related Questions
What is the average daily frequency of Starlink satellites completing their operational lives or experiencing failures?What is the desired outcome for responsible space operations when a satellite reaches the end of its service life or suffers a serious malfunction?What visual signature is often reported when a satellite breaks apart prematurely in the upper atmosphere, distinct from a typical meteor?What engineering goal is targeted by using specific materials in Starlink satellite construction?What is the primary physical reason that the components in a fragmented satellite appear as a 'string of pearls'?Why is launching satellites into a relatively low orbit a key technical consideration?What conditions typically create the most striking visual displays of a satellite breakup?What often causes the violent tumbling that leads to an uncontrolled breakup?What happens to nearly all Starlink satellites upon re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere?According to observer protocol, if an object breaking up appears structured or in a line, what is it highly likely to be?