Watch Out for NASA's Giant Rogue Satellite
Pieces of NASA's six ton, out of control Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite will soon smash into the earth, according to a somewhat unconcerned NASA. The space agency in statement said that the risk of people being crushed by falling debris is "extremely small," and the Telegraph spoke with a scientist who said there's a 1-in-3,200 chance that someone will be obliterated by a piece of the satellite. But still, they basically have no clue where it will hit. Part of NASA's statement reads:
As of Sept. 8, 2011, the orbit of UARS was 152 miles by 171 miles (245 km by 275 km) with an inclination of 57 degrees. Because the satellite's orbit is inclined 57 degrees to the equator, any surviving components of UARS will land within a zone between 57 degrees north latitude and 57 degrees south latitude. It is impossible to pinpoint just where in that zone the debris will land, but NASA estimates the debris footprint will be about 500 miles long.
If you find something you think may be a piece of UARS, do not touch it. Contact a local law enforcement official for assistance.
Don't say you weren't warned.
[Image via NASA]