PhilSA confirms Korea’s Nuri Rocket launch; warns public on possible debris risks

• Photo from PhilSA

By TechWatch PH Staff

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Thursday confirmed the launch of South Korea’s Nuri or Korea Space Launch Vehicle-IV (KSLV-IV), as it issued an advisory reminding the public and maritime sectors to stay cautious of possible falling debris.

According to PhilSA, the rocket lifted off from the Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla at around 12:13 a.m. on November 27.

Based on projections, discarded components from the launch — such as boosters and fairings — may have fallen within designated drop zones far off Philippine territory.

The estimated drop zones include areas roughly 390 nautical miles from Santa Ana, Cagayan; 394 NM from Babuyan Island; 218 NM from Siargao, Surigao del Norte; 228 NM from Mati City, Davao Oriental; and 232 NM from Mercedes, Samar.

PhilSA said details of the hazard area were earlier released through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) announcing “aerospace flight activity.” The agency also circulated a pre-launch report to relevant government offices and local authorities.

While the debris was not expected to land on inhabited areas, PhilSA warned that falling rocket parts pose risks to aircraft, ships, and fishing vessels passing through the identified drop zones.

The agency added that some debris could float and eventually drift toward nearby coastlines.

PhilSA also noted that an uncontrolled re-entry of the rocket’s upper stage returning from space “cannot be ruled out at this time.”

The agency urged the public to report any sighting of suspected rocket debris to local authorities and to avoid retrieving or handling such materials, as they may contain toxic substances including traces of rocket fuel.

For inquiries, the agency advised media to contact publicrelations@philsa.gov.ph.