PhilSA airs Beijing rocket debris warning

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has identified the country’s territorial waters where debris from the Long March 7A rocket launch fell early Sunday.

PhilSA projected that debris from the rocket launch fell within specific drop zones in Philippine waters.

“Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 64 nautical miles from Dalupiri Island, Cagayan; 41 nautical miles from Burgos, Ilocos Norte; 79 nautical miles from Camiguin Norte, Cagayan; and 66 nautical miles from Santa Ana, Cagayan,” it stated in an advisory.

The Long March 7A rocket was launched from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Wenchang, Hainan, at around 12:05 a.m. Philippine Standard Time (PhST) on 30 March 2025.

“Details of the rocket drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen warning of an ‘aerospace flight activity,’” PhilSA said.

It noted that pre-launch reports were sent to concerned government agencies and authorities before the rocket’s launch.

Associated risks

PhilSA explained that unburned rocket debris, such as boosters and fairings, is designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space.

While the debris is not expected to land in populated areas, PhilSA warned that it could pose risks to maritime traffic, including ships, fishing boats and aircraft operating in or passing through these zones.

“There is also a possibility for the debris to float in the area and wash up on nearby coasts,” it added.

PhilSA also highlighted the potential hazards of handling the debris, as it could still contain hazardous substances such as rocket fuel.

“Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled reentry of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time,” it said.

PhilSA urged the public to report any suspected debris sightings to local authorities.

It also cautioned against handling or approaching the debris, as it may still contain traces of toxic substances such as rocket fuel.