China rocket debris may fall near Palawan

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) warned of possible rocket debris falling within Philippine waters near Palawan following China’s launch of a Long March 12 rocket early Saturday.

The projected drop zone is about 25 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa and 19 nautical miles from the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, PhilSA said.

China launched the rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan, at around 3:28 a.m. Philippine time on 10 October.

PhilSA said the drop zone lies within Philippine archipelagic waters, where debris from the rocket could potentially fall.

The agency said details of the drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen warning of an “aerospace flight activity.” It also issued a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities.

Risks from debris

PhilSA explained that unburned rocket components, including boosters and fairings, are discarded during a rocket’s ascent into space.

Although the debris was not projected to fall on land or inhabited areas, it could endanger ships, aircraft, fishing boats and other vessels passing through the designated drop zone.

The agency also warned that debris could remain afloat and eventually wash ashore in nearby coastal areas.

PhilSA added that the possibility of an uncontrolled atmospheric reentry by the rocket’s upper stages could not be ruled out.

The agency noted that the growing number of rocket launches worldwide has raised concerns over debris from rocket staging and the uncontrolled reentry of large rocket components, which could threaten spacecraft, civil aviation and people on the ground.

The Philippines has called on international partners to explore coordinated regional protocols and capabilities to protect space assets and public safety.

PhilSA advised the public to immediately notify local authorities upon sighting suspected rocket debris.

It also cautioned against approaching or retrieving such objects because they could contain toxic substances, including rocket fuel.