21 August 2026
by Sarah Morgan

UK space agency reports rising space debris

The National Space Operations Centre reports rising debris re-entering the atmosphere in July.

Illustration of defunct satellites and fragments, circling the Earth
Space debris is a big risk for the environment and navigation. © Dabarti CGI/shutterstock

There was a 17% increase in the number of objects re-entering Earth’s atmosphere compared with the previous month.

Of the 62 objects that re-entered, 59 were satellites, two were rocket bodies and one was 'likely a piece of debris'.

All National Space Operations Centre warning and protection services were functioning throughout the period.

The National Space Operations Centre is led by the UK Space Agency and UK Space Command in partnership with the Met Office.

Their report covers 1 July 2026 to 31 July 2026 inclusive.

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