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A Soviet-era Venus probe, Cosmos 482, is expected to fall back to Earth Friday night or early Saturday. Launched in 1972, it failed to reach Venus and has been orbiting Earth since. Experts predict it will likely land in the ocean, though a land impact is possible. While mostly intact due to its heat shield, officials advise keeping a safe distance if debris is found as it may contain hazardous materials. The incident highlights the increasing concerns about space debris with the rise of commercial space activity.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.