Suspected space debris is believed to have crashed near a WA mine site, with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau confirming the object was not from a commercial aircraft. 

WA Police were co-ordinating a “multi-agency response” after the burning object was found about 30 kilometres east of Newman in the Pilbara region. 

About 2:00pm on Saturday, mine workers found the object burning near a remote access road and alerted emergency services.

Reports of ‘fireballs’ streaking overhead are becoming more common. Here’s why

From Victoria to the Philippines, reports of fireballs seemingly pop up every few weeks. Are they becoming more frequent or are we just better at catching them?

Initial assessments suggested the item was made of carbon fibre. 

Police said it may be “a composite-overwrapped pressure vessel or rocket tank”, from a space vessel.

“In consultation with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), the object has been ruled out as originating from a commercial aircraft,” police said in a statement. 

Police said the item had characteristics of space re-entry debris. 

“Further technical assessment will be undertaken by engineers from the Australian Space Agency to assist in identifying its nature and source,” the statement said.

a black object on a dusty red dirt road

The suspected space junk. (Supplied: WA Police )

Police said they were working with the Australian Space Agency, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and the mine operator. 

“The object has been secured, and there is no current threat to public safety,” police said.

a black object in a red dirt puddle

The item is believed to be made of carbon fibre.  (Supplied: WA Police )

Loading…Loading