Residents of Mukuku village, Kenya, were startled when a massive metal ring fell from the sky, crashing onto farmland near a dry riverbed. The object, initially too hot to approach, weighed over 500kg and measured approximately 2.5m in diameter. The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) identified it as a “separation ring” from a space rocket, likely orbiting Earth for 16 years before descending.
Local authorities secured the site amid fears of theft, as crowds gathered to inspect the mysterious object. Though no injuries were reported, some villagers claimed the crash caused structural damage to homes. Others voiced concerns about potential long-term radiation effects, but initial tests by the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority revealed radiation levels were not harmful.
The incident highlights the growing risk of space debris as global space activities expand. NASA estimates over 6,000 tonnes of debris currently orbit Earth, with more crashes expected in the future. Mukuku residents have called on the government to ensure their safety and seek accountability under international space treaties.
