Space capsule carrying ashes of 166 people plunges to Earth after hitting 'anomaly'

There's more trouble in the stars, with a craft carrying the ashes of 166 deceased people reportedly crashing down to Earth after it hit an 'anomaly'. There are many different ways people like to be sent off after they pass away, and whether it be being made into a diamond or being incorporated into a tattoo, there are any number of unique ways to say goodbye to your loved ones.

Another alternative is to have your ashes blasted into space where you can live for eternity among the stars.

According to Popular Mechanics, a German startup known as The Exploration Company (TEC) launched a Nyx capsule on June 23 and was supposed to bring the ashes of 166 people safely back to Earth. The 'Mission Possible' initiative helps fulfil people's wishes to become astronauts for one last trip.

Space burial company Celestis was working in tandem with TEC, with TEC saying that while the launch was successful, the mission hit problems shortly before its supposed safe landing.

There had been a brief blackout during re-entry, but after communication was reestablished, TEC says it 'lost communication' with the capsule.

In a statement, TEC said: "We apologize to all our clients who entrusted us with their payloads."

The ashes of the 166 deceased people were lost in the Pacific Ocean alongside other experimental items. This included cannabis plant matter and seeds that were part of a citizen science project called Martian Grow.

Celestis has offered consolation to the families of those whose ashes were on the capsule. CEO and co-founder Charles M. Chafer wrote: "Though we currently believe that we cannot return the flight capsules, we hope families will find some peace in knowing their loved ones were part of a historic journey, launched into space, orbited Earth, and are now resting in the vastness of the Pacific, akin to a traditional and honored sea scattering.

"While there were many successful milestones achieved - launch, orbit, and controlled reentry - this was the first Celestis mission designed to return from orbit, and we recognize the bravery and ambition it required from all involved."

Despite previously successful missions, Chafer concluded: "We also recognize that no technical achievement replaces the profound personal meaning this service holds for our families."

TEC has only launched one capsule before, and while it acknowledged that it wasn't a complete success, it said there was still progress.

Founder and CEO Hélène Huby shared gratitude and regret as she added: "We are continuing our journey, eager to implement these learnings in our next vehicle.

"We will learn from Mission Possible and improve, together as a team. I express my profound gratitude to The Exploration Company's team members who are demonstrating outstanding solidarity, resilience, and commitment to the success of our mission."

Chafer then signed off, saying: "We remain committed to serving with transparency, compassion, and care."