Foreign rocket pieces wash up on Australian beach
Mysterious objects that washed up on a Queensland beach have been revealed to be parts of a foreign rocket that recently re-entered Earth’s atmosphere.
Forrest Beach, a secluded stretch of sand about 80km north of Townsville, was shut after several “suspicious objects” were found there about 2.25pm on Friday.
Suspected space debris on Forrest Beach, near Townsville, Queensland. Queensland Fire Department
On Monday, the Australian Space Agency said the objects appeared to be pressure vessels from a space launch vehicle.
“The objects’ location and characteristics are consistent with debris from a foreign rocket body that recently re-entered the atmosphere from orbit,” the agency said in a statement.
“The Agency is continuing to engage with international authorities to formally confirm the launch vehicle and launching state.”
The origin of the debris is being investigated Queensland Fire Department
Authorities have removed the objects from the beach and determined they are safe after earlier warning that they may be potentially hazardous.
The Australian Space Agency advised that more debris may wash up and urged beachgoers to avoid it.
“Never touch, move or recover suspected space debris and assume it to be hazardous until advised otherwise,” the agency said.
“Move away and contact emergency services.”
The Queensland Fire Department shared images of metallic spheres in the sand.
Anyone who sees suspicious debris on beaches is urged to call emergency services.
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