A vessel with an 18-hour ETA to the Panama Canal on a voyage from Miami loses the ability to communicate via Inmarsat. The most likely cause is?

In this scenario, the vessel's communication loss via Inmarsat is most plausibly attributed to an equipment fault resulting in a loss of signal from the satellite. This explanation takes precedence considering that Inmarsat devices can be affected by various common technical issues, such as hardware malfunctions or software glitches, which would lead to an inability to transmit or receive signals.

While it is possible for coverage areas to limit communication, the given information does not suggest that the vessel is operating outside of coverage zones as it is still en route to the Panama Canal from Miami, where Inmarsat services are typically available. The mention of an 18-hour ETA implies the vessel is operating in areas well within standard communication ranges for Inmarsat, making equipment fault the most logical explanation for the communication loss.

In summary, the specific context of this situation focuses on the inherent reliability and reach of the Inmarsat system in the relevant geographical areas, reinforcing why a technical fault leading to a loss of signal is the most likely reason for the communication failure.