Inp.polri.go.id - Malang.  The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed on Sunday (12/4/2026)  that a glowing object sighted over Malang Regency was not a missile, but rather space debris or a rocket stage burning up upon atmospheric re-entry.

"Our initial analysis indicates the object is likely space debris, possibly a stage from a rocket like the Chinese Long March CZ-3B, reflecting sunlight at high altitudes," said Ricko Kardoso, the Head of the BMKG Malang Geophysics Station, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The phenomenon, often described as a "space jellyfish" due to its wide gas tail, was captured by residents in Kromengan on Saturday evening. 

BMKG explained that such sightings are common in equatorial regions, which serve as frequent paths for satellite orbits. Similar sightings were recently reported in Lampung and Natuna earlier this month. Authorities urged the public to remain calm, emphasizing that these atmospheric re-entries are recurring scientific events and pose no threat to national security or local residents.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)