The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has issued an official statement regarding the recent discovery of a metallic object that fell from the sky and landed in Mukuku Village, Makueni County, on December 30, 2024.
The object, identified as a fragment of a space vehicle, caused concern among residents before authorities swiftly responded to secure the area and retrieve the debris.
The object, a metallic ring measuring approximately 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing about 500 kilograms, is believed to be a separation ring from a space launch vehicle, commonly designed to burn up upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere or fall in uninhabited areas such as oceans.
According to KSA, this particular case represents an isolated incident, and the agency has already initiated an investigation under the framework of international space law.
The object is now under KSA’s custody for further analysis and identification.
The Agency has reassured the public that the fallen object does not pose any immediate threat to safety.
KSA experts are working to identify the owner of the space debris and will keep the public informed about any developments regarding the investigation.
In its statement, KSA commended the local residents of Mukuku Village for their prompt reporting of the incident, as well as the local leadership, the Makueni County Government, and media outlets for their swift dissemination of information.
The Agency expressed gratitude for the community's cooperation in ensuring the safety of all individuals in the region.
KSA also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or unusual occurrences to the relevant authorities, as the investigation into the space debris continues.