A Minnesota Farmer’s Fall Harvest Came With a Surprise — an 11-Foot Object That Likely Fell From Space
Learn how a Minnesota farmer found a mysterious metal object in his field and why experts believe it could have fallen from space.
A Minnesota farmer discovered an unusual 11-foot metal object while harvesting corn in Scott Township. The Stevens County Sheriff's Office described it as "presumably a space object," raising questions about how such hardware survives atmospheric entry and what to do if encountered. Authorities confirmed the object posed no danger and were working with state and federal agencies to identify its origin and arrange for removal.
One possibility is that it came from a Chinese Zhuque-2E rocket, whose upper stage is believed to have reentered Earth's atmosphere over the Midwest after a September 15 launch. However, the rocket manufacturer, LandSpace, has not confirmed this connection. Space debris, including fragments from satellites and rocket stages, can reach Earth's surface, often surviving intense heating during reentry.
Authorities advise against touching or moving suspected space debris and recommend contacting emergency services to report the find.
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