Chinese Rocket Zhuque-2E Upper Stage Explodes in Low Earth Orbit, Releases 100-150 Debris Pieces (xataka.com)

• Chinese rocket upper stage Zhuque-2E exploded on June 9, 2026
• 100-150 debris pieces in LEO, near ISS and Starlink
• China responsible for 3 of 4 largest debris events since 2000
• Chinese launch debris up 150% in 5 years
• Experts urge passivation and deorbit practices

"On June 9, 2026, the upper stage of the Chinese Zhuque-2E rocket exploded after deploying two satellites, releasing 100-150 debris pieces in low Earth orbit near the ISS and Starlink satellites. China is responsible for three of the four largest debris events this century, including the 2007 Fengyun-1C ASAT test and Long March 6A explosions in 2022 and 2024. Debris from Chinese launches has increased 150% in five years, while Russia and the US have reduced theirs."