On Wednesday, the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) addressed concerns surrounding a metallic object that fell from the sky into Mukuku Village, Mukuku Sublocation, Nduluku Location, Waia Division, Mbooni East Sub-County, Makueni County, on December 30, 2024.

The unidentified object, which descended roughly two kilometers from the Mukuku Police Post, sparked curiosity and alarm among locals. Upon examination, KSA identified the object as a metallic ring measuring approximately 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing about 500 kilograms, believed to be a fragment of a space object.

“Initial analysis indicates that the object is likely a separation ring from a rocket launch vehicle,” the agency stated.

KSA explained that such components are typically designed to burn up during atmospheric re-entry or land in uninhabited areas like oceans. However, this event, deemed an isolated incident, will be investigated under protocols established by International Space Law.

Agency officials, in partnership with a multi-agency team and local authorities, secured the site and collected the debris. The material is now under KSA’s custody for detailed analysis.

KSA commended the Mukuku residents for promptly reporting the incident and cooperating with authorities to ensure public safety. They also expressed gratitude to local leaders, the multi-agency team, the Makueni County Government, and media organizations for their swift response and dissemination of information.

Experts will analyze the object further to identify its origin and owner, keeping the public updated on findings and any subsequent actions.

Residents reported witnessing the unusual event, accompanied by a loud explosion audible up to 50 kilometers away.

Major Alois Were of the Kenya Defence Forces, associated with KSA, reassured the public, stating, “Such objects are generally expected to disintegrate completely or land safely in the ocean. This is an isolated occurrence, and there is no reason for concern.”

The Kenya Space Agency, in collaboration with the Kenya Defence Forces, has launched a thorough investigation to determine the object’s exact origin.