Study shows how earthquake monitors can track space junk through sonic booms

A new study reveals that earthquake monitors can effectively track falling space debris by detecting sonic booms. Researchers analyzed seismic readings from the reentry of a discarded Chinese crew capsule module over Southern California in 2024, determining its path more accurately than radar predictions. This method, published in the journal Science, could expedite debris recovery efforts, especially for hazardous materials. Scientists have already used seismic data to track dozens of other reentries, including SpaceX Starship debris in Texas. With the increasing number of satellites in orbit, the study highlights the growing concern about the potential for falling debris to strike aircraft and the need for improved tracking methods.