An object recently discovered on a beach near Jurien Bay in Western Australia has been identified as probable space debris, according to the Australian Space Agency (ASA).
The agency released a statement today confirming the object is likely being a remnant from the expended third stage of a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a medium-lift launch vehicle operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The debris is currently in storage as the ASA collaborates with the ISRO to provide further confirmation and determine the next steps, considering the obligations under United Nations space treaties.
We have concluded the object located on a beach near Jurien Bay in Western Australia is most likely debris from an expended third-stage of a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).The PSLV is a medium-lift launch vehicle operated by @isro.
[More in comments] pic.twitter.com/ivF9Je1Qqy
— Australian Space Agency (@AusSpaceAgency) July 31, 2023
Locals urged to report sightings
In a bid to involve the community in its mission to maintain the safety of Australian territories, the ASA has urged locals to report any further sightings of suspected debris to local authorities and to notify the ASA via its dedicated monitoring email, space.monitoring@space.gov.au.
In a series of tweets, the ASA reiterated its commitment to the long-term sustainability of outer space activities, which includes rigorous debris mitigation efforts
This current event underscores the agency's ongoing role in ensuring the safe and responsible use of space, and its work in bringing these important issues to the international stage.
The agency has yet to comment on what the likely presence of space debris on an Australian beach could mean for future international space policies, but the international community will undoubtedly be watching closely for further developments.
The Australian Space Agency continues to strengthen its role in global space exploration and sustainability efforts, and this recent incident brings a sharp focus to the practical realities of these ambitious endeavours.