Photo from the Philippine Space AgencyMANILA — The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Tuesday warned the public about possible debris that may have fallen in some areas in the Philippines following a rocket launch from China.
PhilSA said the Long March 8A rocket, launched from China around 4:52 p.m. Philippine time on Tuesday, may have caused some debris to fall approximately 92 nautical miles (NM) away from Patag Island, 143 NM away from Bajo de Masinloc, and 194 NM away from Busuanga, Palawan (DZ1); and 52 NM away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, 23 NM away from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, 103 NM away from Pangutaran Island, Sulu, and 113 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan (DZ2).
DZ1 is within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and DZ2 is within Philippine archipelagic waters.
The debris, which may include booster and fairing, poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone, said PhilSA.
It said a pre-launch report has also been disseminated to relevant government agencies and authorities.
An uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space is also possible.
The public is advised to inform local authorities if suspected debris is seen.
PhilSA also cautioned against retrieving or coming in close contact with debris as they may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel.
PhilSA issues advisory on debris from recent Chinese rocket launch
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