Space agency issues caution over re-entry of large space debris

By Newsflash Writer

The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has issued an official alert to the public warning of a possible re-entry of space debris over Kenyan airspace between Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20, 2025.

The object in question, identified as NORAD ID 61909/2024-205R, is a significant piece of debris from a rocket body of unknown mass, currently on a trajectory that may include the eastern African region, including Kenya.

In a statement released on April 18, the agency emphasized that although the debris is not expected to fall directly in Kenya, its potential path of re-entry includes the North-East to South-East corridor of the country, stretching into Tanzania. The projected window for re-entry spans from Saturday, April 19, 7:29 a.m. to Sunday, April 20, 3:01 p.m., with the most likely re-entry time forecasted around 11:15 p.m. on April 19, plus or minus 15 hours and 46 minutes.

Public advised to be vigilant

“The object could pose a significant risk to life and property along its path owing to its large size,” warned the agency. KSA urged the public to be vigilant and to report any sightings of debris falling or flying through the sky during the specified period.

Despite the uncertainty regarding the exact re-entry location, the Kenya Space Agency stated that it is working closely with international partners to refine predictions and ensure public safety. Out of an abundance of caution, the agency asked residents to report any suspected debris immediately to the nearest police station, local administrative office, or military base.

Not the first time

This is not the first time that re-entering space debris has caused global concern. In recent years, uncontrolled re-entries of defunct satellites and rocket boosters have reignited debates over space traffic management and the responsibility of spacefaring nations. In 2021, parts of a Chinese Long March 5B rocket made headlines after pieces landed near populated areas in the Indian Ocean, narrowly avoiding a major disaster.

Experts note that while much of the debris from space typically burns up upon re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, larger components—especially those made of heat-resistant materials—can survive and hit the ground with potentially destructive force.

KSA’s expanding role

The Kenya Space Agency, a state corporation under the Ministry of Defence, is mandated to coordinate, regulate, and promote space-related activities in Kenya. As part of its responsibilities, it monitors space objects and events that may pose risks to the country. The agency has increased its regional and international collaborations in recent years to enhance its space situational awareness capabilities.

In the current case, KSA has released a predicted ground track showing the possible route of the debris’ descent, covering parts of Africa, Asia, and the Indian Ocean. The map illustrates the object’s trajectory in a north-south pattern that places eastern African nations, including Kenya, under potential risk.

KSA concluded its statement by calling on the public to remain alert but calm, assuring Kenyans that all efforts were being made to monitor the situation in real-time and provide further updates as necessary.

For reports or inquiries, the public is encouraged to contact KSA through their hotline or official email addresses provided in the release.