A Chinese Zhuque-2E rocket deorbited over the US Midwest on September 15, scattering fiery debris across Kansas and Minnesota. Days later, a Minnesota farmer discovered an 11-foot circular metal object in his cornfield, which authorities confirm is likely space debris from the rocket.
Background
LandSpace's Zhuque-2E is a medium-lift rocket launched from Dongfeng commercial spaceport in Gobi Desert. Space debris reentry over populated areas is an increasing concern as commercial launches grow globally.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Oct 19, 2026 at 10:35 PM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10