China: missile fragments found in the Indian Ocean

The Chinese argue that most of the debris from the launcher was burnt on reentry and it is highly unlikely that any damage was caused. The Long March 5B rocket launched part of a Chinese space station into space.

It was not known where the fragments of the Chinese missile would end. The missile could fall between 41 degrees north latitude and 41 degrees south latitude. So in the north like, for example, New York, Madrid or Beijing. Or as south as Wellington in New Zealand.

Space experts had warned that parts of the 30-meter rocket weighing more than 20 tons could have ended up in populated areas. The European Space Agency (ESA) feared that debris from the uncontrolled rescue launcher could land in southern Europe. Washington has complained that international agreements require these missiles to return to the ocean in a controlled manner while they use their last fuel.

“ More than sloppy ”

Quest science journalist Adriaam ter Braack told RTL News earlier this week that it was more than remiss that China no longer had the missile under control. “Normally the intention is that you take a little care of what you leave in the space. And therefore make sure to properly adjust such a construction, which will eventually fall to the ground, so that it falls. in the sea. not. “

China is occupied with space projects, and if a Chinese space station works, it may be the only one in the future. After more than twenty busy years, the International Space Station ISS is “exhausted” and looks forward to the last few years.