PhilSA alerts public over possible rocket debris from China's Long March 10B launch

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Friday advised the public to remain vigilant following the launch of China’s Long March 10B rocket, warning that debris could fall within an identified drop zone in the South China Sea.

In an advisory, PhilSA said the Long March 10B was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan at around 12:16 p.m. Philippine time on Friday.

The agency said the projected drop zone for the rocket’s debris is located approximately 180 nautical miles from Bajo de Masinloc, 281 nautical miles from Patag Island, and 298 nautical miles from Bolinao, Pangasinan. The area is within the Manila Flight Information Region (FIR).

PhilSA said details of the drop zone were released through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of an “aerospace flight activity,” and that it had disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities before the launch.

According to the agency, unburned rocket components such as the booster and fairing are designed to separate as the rocket enters outer space.

While the debris is not expected to fall on land or populated areas, PhilSA warned that it could pose risks to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels passing through the drop zone.

“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,” the agency said.

The agency urged the public to immediately inform local authorities if suspected rocket debris is found. — VBL, GMA News