A toolbox was lost in space during two astronauts’ mission to the ISS (International Space Station).

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) professionals Jasmine Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara were the driving forces behind this feat.

Astronauts dropped their toolbox – Photo: Disclosure/NASA/ND

According to NASA, the incident was recorded during 6:42 hours of repair work on the spacecraft. It was there that a backpack-sized bag escaped from the astronauts’ hands and became a floating object visible from Earth, located a few minutes from the space station.

The incident was accidentally captured on camera by Japanese astronaut Satoshi Furukawa, who was photographing Mount Fuji at the time.

NASA has assured that the instruments contained in the bag are not required for the remainder of the spacewalk, providing peace of mind regarding the continuation of operations.

After analyzing the trajectory of the bag by Mission Control, it was determined that the risk of new contact with the space station is low, which ensures the safety of the crew and the ISS itself.

The toolbox may turn to dust

The bag, now classified as space debris, is expected to return to Earth’s orbit in the coming months, where it is likely to be consumed by flames.

Sky lovers equipped with binoculars may have the opportunity to see this unusual “space backpack”.

According to the EarthSky website, the object is surprisingly bright, almost reaching the limit of visibility with the naked eye. A curious addition to the celestial spectacle, resulting from a spatial observation that is currently developing into a curious orbit around our planet.

Toolbox drop:

Last seen @Astro_Satoshi while flying over Mount Fuji ???? Orbital Police can confirm lost spacewalk equipment is being tracked ???? https://t.co/wz4MITmAfM pic.twitter.com/eksfu9fPFw

— Dr. Meganne Christian (@astro_meganne) November 5, 2023