The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has launched an investigation into a metallic object that fell from the sky on December 30, 2024, and landed in Mukuku Village, Mukuku Sublocation, Nduluku Location, Waia Division, Mbooni East Sub-County, Makueni County.
According to KSA, the object, identified as a metallic ring measuring approximately 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing about 500 kilograms, is a fragment of a space object.
“Preliminary assessments indicate that the fallen object is a separation ring from a launch vehicle (rocket),” the Agency said in a statement.
The incident, which occurred approximately two kilometers from Mukuku Police Post, caused panic among residents who were puzzled by its origin and nature. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang that was audible as far as 50 kilometers away.
“Such objects are usually designed to burn up as they re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere or to fall over unoccupied areas, such as the oceans,” the Agency explained.
KSA officials, in collaboration with a multi-agency team and local authorities, promptly secured the site and retrieved the debris. The object is now under the Agency’s custody for further investigation.
“This is an isolated case, which the Agency will investigate and address using the established framework under International Space law,” the statement added.
KSA also thanked local residents for their swift action in reporting the incident and their cooperation in ensuring public safety. Gratitude was extended to local leadership, the Makueni County Government, and media houses for timely dissemination of information.
Major Alois Were of the Kenya Defence Forces, attached to KSA, assured the public that there was no reason for alarm.
“Under normal circumstances, such objects are supposed to burn up completely or land safely in the ocean. This is an isolated incident,” Major Were stated.
The Agency confirmed that experts would analyze the object to determine its origin and identify its owner, keeping the public informed of any developments.
Residents described the event as a rare spectacle, with many gathering at the site to catch a glimpse of the unusual object.
The Kenya Defence Forces and KSA have pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact origin and circumstances leading to the incident.
