December 26, 2024

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Germany is on alert for International Space Station debris, and the risks are minimal – DW – 03/08/2024

Germany is on alert for International Space Station debris, and the risks are minimal – DW – 03/08/2024

Germany searches for debris falling from the ship International Space Station (ISS) on Friday after reports that some of it may land in the western state of the country Rhineland-PalatinateOr other parts of the country.

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The debris belongs to a battery pack that was separated from the International Space Station three years ago. Space junk weighs 2.6 tons (2,600 kilograms), or the size of an SUV.

Space junk will likely enter the atmosphere over North America, according to the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The debris is expected to burn as it approaches the Earth's surface.

German authorities say they are prepared if some debris falls on German territory Photo: Jan Everett/Image Alliance

There is a high probability that he will drown in the ocean. The DLR said the debris poses an “unlikely” risk to space Germany.

The German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate (BMWK) said that “the object is being closely monitored” and that crisis measures had been taken in case debris fell into Germany.

Germany's Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance earlier sent out text messages on warning apps on Thursday, saying there was a low risk of falling debris in Germany. However, it told users that they will receive new information about the app if the situation changes.

WD/LO (dpa)