Because the project represented the next step toward wider space exploration, NASA threw itself into successfully putting Skylab in orbit.
This lack of preparation presented a problem in late 1978, when NASA engineers discovered the station’s orbit was decaying rapidly.
Funding and other snafus delayed the shuttle project, however, so NASA had to come up with a new plan.
While large chunks did go into the ocean, parts of the space station also littered populated areas of western Australia.
Many Australian prospectors who uncovered Skylab artifacts never reported the finds to authorities after tales of confiscated booty made the rounds.
Because the orbiter almost completely burned up on re-entry, the majority of its remnants consist of very small shards.
These and other items, such as purported Skylab toothpaste and canned meals, can be purchased at various online auction sites. »
