A piece of space junk called Cosmos 482 is unlikely to pose a threat to people or property. But space experts say it highlights the need to stay vigilant.

The failed Venus probe launched by Soviet Union 53 years ago is expected to fall back to Earth this week and satellite trackers are analysing it through pictures. Ralf Vandebergh of the Netherlands has shared several images of the Cosmos 482 spacecraft which is losing altitude with each passing day.

Part of a spacecraft that has been stuck in orbit for 53 years is due to reenter Earth’s atmosphere around May 10 and could arrive intact.