Large chunk of suspected space debris found in Australian desert

A large chunk of suspected space debris was found in a remote part of the Australian desert, according to the country’s space agency.

A large chunk of suspected space debris has been found in a remote part of the Australian desert, the country’s space agency confirmed Monday.

The charred and smoldering object was found in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, according to the Australian Space Agency. It’s not yet clear what the object is or where it came from, but officials said it’s probably a spent rocket part.

“The debris is likely a propellant tank or pressure vessel from a space launch vehicle,” the Australian Space Agency wrote in a post on X.

The agency did not provide details about the object’s size or weight, but wrote that it is working with local authorities and other space agencies to investigate and determine “the exact nature of the debris and its origin.”

The agency did not immediately respond to NBC News' request for further information.