The chance of getting hit by a Soviet spacecraft goes up next week
1 min read
Summary
The Soviet space probe, Kosmos 482, which malfunctioned shortly after launching in 1972, is expected to crash to Earth on 10 May along with other debris.
The lander component of the craft, which is 3 ft long and weighs 495 lbs, is the primary concern; it is unlikely to burn up on re-entry due to its thickness, and could land anywhere.
However, the risk to people or property is minimal, according to expert Marco Langbroek: “You run a bigger risk of getting hit by lightning in your lifetime.”
This incident is a reminder of the problems caused by space debris, and the need for compliant disposal of waste launched into space.