Kenya on alert over potential space debris re-entry this weekend

The Kenya Space Agency has issued a cautionary notice to the public over the possible re-entry of a large piece of space debris expected to pass over parts of Kenya this weekend.

The agency on Friday warned that the debris, which is part of a rocket body, could present risks to life and property along its projected path.

Identified as Norad ID 61909/2024-205R, the object is classified as 'significant debris from a rocket of unknown mass.'

According to the Agency, the object’s predicted flight trajectory places it over the Eastern African region, passing over Kenya from the northeast and heading southeast toward Tanzania.

The re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere is expected around 11:15 pm on Saturday, April 19, 2025, with a time margin of plus or minus 15 hours and 46 minutes.

This means the debris could enter the atmosphere any time between 7:29 am on Saturday and 3:01 pm on Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Due to the object’s large size, the agency warned it could pose a danger to people and property along its path.

The Agency, however, emphasized that while the debris is not expected to fall in Kenya, the public should remain alert during the indicated timeframe.

"The object could pose a significant risk to life and property along its path owing to its large size," the agency stated.

KSA said officials are working with international partners to improve the accuracy of the projected flight path and re-entry time.

As this effort continues, the agency is taking precautions by informing the public and asking for vigilance.

"While the debris is not expected to drop in Kenya, KSA, out of abundance of caution, wishes to advise members of the public to be vigilant and to be on the lookout for potential debris dropping from or flying through the sky within the specified period," said the Agency.

In the event that debris is seen falling or flying overhead, the agency has asked citizens to report such sightings promptly to the nearest police station, national government administrative office, or military camp.

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