Philippine Space Agency Issues Warning on Potential Rocket Debris in Coastal Waters

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has issued a warning to coastal residents and maritime operators in the western and southern Philippine waters regarding potential falling debris from China’s recent rocket launch. The Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang at approximately 3:52 p.m., an event that had been previously communicated through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) highlighting an "aerospace flight activity" that could impact Philippine airspace and sea lanes.

Projected splashdown areas for fragments from the launch include several maritime locations near the Philippines, notably:

• Approximately 120 nautical miles off El Nido, Palawan
• 140 nautical miles off Puerto Princesa
• 48 nautical miles from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
• 31 nautical miles off Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan
• 40 nautical miles near Pangutaran Island, Sulu

PhilSA emphasized that uncontrolled re-entries and falling rocket debris inherently pose safety hazards to fishing communities, marine vessels, and the surrounding environment. The agency strongly encouraged the public to promptly notify local authorities if suspected debris is observed.

"PhilSA reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted. PhilSA also cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials," the agency stated, citing risks including residual hazardous substances such as traces of rocket fuel.

The agency's advisory serves to protect both the safety of those in affected areas and mitigate environmental risks tied to such aerospace activities.