Morris Space Junk: Chinese Rocket May Explain Mystery
MORRIS, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — An 11-foot-wide metal object discovered in a cornfield near Morris may be part of a Chinese rocket.
A new investigation connects the mysterious object to a rocket launched from China on September 15, 2026.
The discovery has drawn attention because of the object’s unusual size and possible journey from space.
However, its origin has not been officially confirmed.
Mysterious Metal Object Found Near Morris
The Stevens County Sheriff’s Office received a report of unusual debris around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 14.
Deputies responded to a cornfield in Scott Township, west of Morris.
They discovered a large, circular metal object measuring approximately 11 feet across.
The object appeared scorched, raising questions about whether it had fallen through Earth’s atmosphere.
Officials contacted the Minnesota Duty Officer, and federal agencies became involved in identifying the object.
Authorities determined the debris posed no danger to the public.
The object was removed from the field Thursday evening and taken to a secure location.
Chinese Rocket Identified as Possible Source
Space reporter Stephen Clark of Ars Technica traced the possible source to a Chinese Zhuque-2E rocket.
The rocket launched from northwestern China on September 15, 2026.
It was built by LandSpace, a Chinese aerospace company.
The mission successfully placed 10 communications satellites into orbit.
Those satellites are part of China’s Qianfan communications network.
The rocket’s upper stage measured approximately 11 feet in diameter.
That measurement closely matches the object discovered near Morris.
The rocket’s flight path also matches reports of glowing debris crossing the Midwest on September 15.
These findings suggest the metal object could be part of the rocket’s upper stage.
However, authorities have not officially confirmed the connection.
Did the Rocket’s Return to Earth Go Wrong?
Rockets often release their satellites before returning unused sections toward Earth.
Operators usually try to direct these sections toward remote ocean areas.
This helps reduce the risk of debris reaching populated areas.
According to Ars Technica, the Chinese rocket fired its engine after deploying the satellites.
That maneuver lowered the rocket stage toward Earth’s atmosphere.
The report suggests the return may not have followed its intended path.
However, a failed return maneuver has not been officially confirmed.
Most space debris burns up while passing through the atmosphere.
Larger metal pieces can sometimes survive and reach the ground.
Federal Agencies Continue Investigation
State and federal officials are working to determine the object’s origin and ownership.
The Stevens County Sheriff’s Office has not announced when the investigation will be completed.
No injuries were reported in connection with the discovery.
The Stevens County Times published the original sheriff’s office report.
The Minnesota Star Tribune also reported that the object was moved to a secure location.
For now, the Chinese rocket remains the strongest publicly reported explanation for the unusual discovery.
Officials have not yet released a final identification.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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