Western Kentuckians paid a little closer attention to the sky late Friday evening, when a balloon — not of American origin — continued on its forecasted path across the United States and into Tennessee.
Throughout late Thursday and into Friday, mystery of the balloon captivated the U.S. and its civilian, curious as to whom it belonged.
Once the question was popped, dignitaries from China acknowledged it belonged to their government — a wayward weather and civilian observation satellite blown way off course.
According to Reuters, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed what’s been a long-planned visit to Beijing and China this weekend over the sovereignty snafu, calling it a “clear violation” of American airspace.
Furthermore, it was reported that the nation’s military leaders considered shooting down the high-altitude craft this past Wednesday, but instead recommended against such action to President Joe Biden because of “the safety risk” from debris.
At times during its flight, it’s been measured at more than 60,000 feet — greater than 10 miles above sea level.
Per the New York Post, Pentagon officials have noted the balloon could remain over American soil “for days,” with Air Force Brigadier General Patrick Ryder noting that the craft seemed “maneuverable,” and that it was “being monitored.”
Fox News correspondent Jonathan Hunt reported that the Biden administration is facing “criticism” over its lack of action on this Chinese device.
The balloon’s average height is 20,000 feet above commercial airspace, and is not believed to “post a potential risk to people” in the air.
