PhilSA cautions public over possible debris from China’s Long March 8A Rocket launch

• IN PHOTO: Estimated drop zone of the Long March 8A Launch (PhilSA)

By San Matildo

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) confirmed on Tuesday, August 26, the launch of China’s Long March 8A rocket, cautioning the public about possible falling debris projected within Philippine maritime zones.

“Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 130 NM away from El Nido, Palawan, 55 NM away from TubbatahaReef Natural Park, and 27 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan,” PhilSA said on its advisory.

The rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan at around 3:09 a.m. Philippine Standard Time.

Prior to the launch, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been issued, warning of “aerospace flight activity.” PhilSA also disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities.

“Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 130 NM away from El Nido, Palawan, 55 NM away from TubbatahaReef Natural Park, and 27 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan,” PhilSA said.

”There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts. Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time,” it added.

PhilSA advised the public to report any suspected debris sightings to local authorities and warned against retrieving or handling such objects, as they may contain toxic remnants of rocket fuel.