EASA issues SIB on expected re-entry of large space object Rocket Long March 5B (CZ-5B)

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued Safety Information Bulletin 2022-07 to raise awareness on the expected re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere of the large space object Rocket Long March 5B (CZ-5B).

European Union (EU) Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) experts have estimated that the debris generated by the aforementioned object will likely re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere in an uncontrolled manner between July 30 and 31, 2022.

The EU SST has predicted a variety of possible re-entry trajectories, one of which could potentially affect the southern European airspace.

EASA recommends that the relevant National Aviation Authorities, ANSPs and aircraft operators regularly monitor and take into consideration the latest predictions for the re-entry and adapt their risk assessments in accordance with the evolving situation and information available.