A Soviet spacecraft from the 1970s, Kosmos 482, is projected to crash back to Earth around May 10 after decades in orbit. Space debris experts, including scientist Marco Langbroek, assess that although it poses some risk, the probability of hitting anything is low, likening it to meteorite falls. Originally launched in 1972, the spacecraft was intended for a Venus mission but malfunctioned. Though it may survive re-entry, concerns exist regarding its heat shield and parachute integrity after years in orbit.
"While not without risk, we should not be too worried," Langbroek said. The object is relatively small... you run a bigger risk of getting hit by lightning in your lifetime."
Experts doubt the parachute system would work after so many years. The heat shield may also be compromised after so long in orbit.
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