The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has clarified the mystery surrounding a metallic object that landed in Mukuku Village, Makueni County. According to the agency, the object was part of a rocket’s separation mechanism.
In a statement released by KSA, the object, approximately 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing around 500 kilograms, is typical of rocket debris designed to disintegrate as it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere. Such objects are intended to fall over unpopulated areas, such as oceans, to minimize risks to humans and property.
KSA officials, in collaboration with local authorities, secured the area shortly after the incident was reported. The debris has been retrieved and will undergo further analysis to pinpoint its origin.
“This is an isolated case, which the agency will investigate and address using the established framework under International Space Law,” KSA noted in the statement.
The agency also expressed gratitude to the residents of Mukuku Village for their quick action in reporting the incident and their cooperation in ensuring public safety.
This incident underscores the importance of monitoring and regulating space activity, as well as raising public awareness about the potential risks associated with re-entering space debris.
