Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has identified the mysterious metallic object that fell in Mukuku, Makueni County, as a fragment of a rocket’s separation ring. The ring, weighing approximately 500 kilograms and with a diameter of 2.5 meters, is believed to have survived re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, an uncommon occurrence.
In a statement on January 1, 2025, KSA explained that such components are typically designed to burn up during re-entry or fall into uninhabited areas like oceans. Major Alois Were, a Kenya Defence Forces officer with KSA, visited the site and stated that the agency would seek assistance from the United Nations to determine the object’s origin under international space law.
Witnesses described the object as glowing red-hot and visible in the sky for hours before crashing to the ground with a loud noise, sparking fear among residents. Ann Kathuli, whose land the object landed on, said it startled both people and animals in the area.
Local leaders, including youth representative John Musili, called for a thorough investigation into the incident, citing concerns over potential links to international conflicts or missile activity.
KSA reassured the public that the object poses no harm but confirmed further analysis will be conducted, with findings to be shared in due course.