Kenya Space Agency warns of possible falling rocket debris this weekend

Kenya Space Agency warns of possible falling rocket debris this weekend

Starship debris from IFT-7 falls through the sky. PHOTO | FILE

The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has cautioned the public to be on the lookout for a debris potentially dropping from the sky.

In a statement released on Friday, the agency explained that the debris, from a rocket body of unknown mass, is expected to fly over the North Eastern region to the South East of Kenya towards Tanzania and further southward.

The debris is predicted to drop on Saturday, April 19, at around 11:15pm with a margin of error of 15 hours and 46 minutes.

This means the re-entry through the earth's atmosphere could occur within the window from Saturday, April 19, at 7:29am to Sunday, April 20, at 3:01pm.

KSA warned that the object could pose a significant risk to life and property along its path owing to its large size hence cautioned Kenyans to be vigilant during the period. 

"We further urge members of the public to report promptly dropping of any space debris to the security agencies through the nearest police station, national government administrative office or military camp for necessary action," read the statement read.

In January 2025, another metallic object fell from the sky and landed at Makuku village in Makueni, causing concern among the locals. 

According to KSA, the debris, measuring approximately 2.5 metres in diameter and weighing about 500 kg, separated from a rocket.

The agency explained that the object is usually designed to burn up as it re-enters the earth's atmosphere or fall over unoccupied areas.

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Rocket Debris Kenya Space Agency

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