A Soviet rocket launched over 50 years ago is expected to crash into Earth very soon. Should New Yorkers worry?

The Soviet-era spacecraft, Kosmos 482, was launched in 1972.

Soviet-Era Spacecraft Set to Reenter Earth's Atmosphere After 53 Years

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The spacecraft was intended for a Venus mission in 1972. However, the spacecraft failed to escape Earth's orbit due to a rocket malfunction and has been orbiting ever since.

The 1,091-pound lander module was designed to withstand Venus's extreme conditions.

It's been orbiting Earth for decades after the botched launch.

Expected To Reenter Earth This Week

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Experts say, over half a century later, the 1,000-pound space junk is on track to reenter Earth’s atmosphere between May 7 and May 13.

People are freaking out. But should New Yorkers, or Hudson Valley residents, worry?

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Should You Worry In New York State?

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Experts say the crash zone is anywhere between 52°N and 52°S. That covers a huge portion of Earth, including New York, as well as parts of North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.

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Officials believe the spacecraft will survive reentry and slam into Earth at over 150 miles per hour.

Trackers are closely watching the spacecraft's descent. More precise predictions about the crash spot are expected as the spacecraft gets closer.

Chances Of Hitting Something

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The chances of the spacecraft hitting someone or anything is very low, but it's not zero percent.

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Experts compare the chances of it causing harm to the chance of getting struck by lightning.

Officials are hopeful the rocket will land in the ocean.

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Observers may witness the reentry as a bright fireball in the sky, similar to a meteor.

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