Authorities are investigating how suspected space debris ended up in outback Australia after miners discovered burning objects.
Western Australia Police are leading the response after burning rubbish was discovered near the mining town of Newman on Saturday afternoon.
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Transportation security officials ruled out that the item came from a commercial aircraft, saying it was likely re-entered into space debris.
“Initial assessments indicate the item was made from carbon fiber and may be a composite-wrapped pressure vessel or missile tank consistent with aerospace components,” a Washington State Police spokesman said.
“The object is still under investigation, although its characteristics are consistent with known space debris… further technical assessment will be carried out by engineers from an Australian university. Space The Agency will be assisted in identifying its nature and source.”
Mine employees discovered a burning object near a remote access road and called emergency services at about 2 p.m., police said.
Police, the Australian Space Agency, the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services and mine operators are involved in the investigation.
Details coming soon…
