The Soviet Kosmos 482 probe, launched in 1972, is expected to re-enter Earth's atmosphere sometime between Friday night and Saturday morning. Predictions vary slightly, but the probe, weighing 1,091 pounds, is likely to land anywhere between 52 degrees north and 52 degrees south latitude. While a direct impact on a person is unlikely, the event highlights the growing problem of uncontrolled space debris re-entry, with experts calling for better end-of-life plans for satellites and investment in debris removal technologies.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.