Scientists have developed a new method to track stray space debris as it enters the Earth's atmosphere in real time using seismic sensors on the ground.[1][2][3] These sensors pick up sonic booms, the shock waves that occur when space debris flies faster than sound.[1][2][3] The number of uncontrolled re-entry of satellites and debris into the atmosphere is growing exponentially, increasing the risks to people, infrastructure and the environment.[1][3] The method was tested on the return of the Shenzhou-15 orbital module on April 2, 2024, when atmospheric entry took place thousands of kilometers southwest of its predicted location in the North Atlantic.[1][3] The analysis of seismic signals made it possible to determine the trajectory, the direction of movement and the possible place of impact, which was confirmed by testimonies and video recordings.[1][2][3] This technique complements radar tracking and helps quickly locate debris on the ground or track the spread of toxic particles in the atmosphere.[1][2] The study was published in the journal Science (Volume 391, Number 6783, Pages 348-349).[3]