Scientists Develop New Method to Track Space Junk Using Atmospheric Sonic Booms

Scientists have discovered an unexpected new way to track space junk as it falls back to Earth: by listening for sonic booms in the atmosphere. Researchers say the method could help better locate debris from satellites and spacecraft during reentry, a process that has long been difficult to monitor accurately.

Space junk reenters Earth’s atmosphere more than three times a day, according to experts, often burning up at extreme speeds. While most debris disintegrates, some pieces can reach the ground, posing risks to people, infrastructure, and the environment. Tracking where debris lands is challenging because objects can break apart unpredictably as they descend.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University and Imperial College London found that falling space debris produces sonic booms similar to those created by meteoroids or supersonic aircraft. These shock waves can be detected by seismometers, instruments normally used to measure earthquakes. By analyzing these vibrations, scientists can reconstruct the debris’ path through the sky.

To test the method, the team analyzed the uncontrolled reentry of part of China’s Shenzhou-15 spacecraft in April 2024 over California. Data from more than 100 seismometers revealed a reentry trajectory that differed from radar-based predictions, suggesting the technique could complement existing tracking systems.

Scientists say the approach could provide faster information about where debris may fall and help identify areas at risk of contamination from toxic materials used in spacecraft. While the method will not detect all debris, especially smaller fragments, researchers believe it could become a valuable addition to radar and optical tracking.

Experts not involved in the study say the technique is promising because it uses existing seismic networks and publicly available data. They caution, however, that sonic boom detection would work best as a complementary tool rather than a standalone solution.

As space activity increases and more satellites are launched, researchers say improving how falling debris is tracked will be essential to better protect communities and understand the environmental impact of space operations.

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