In an official announcement, the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) acknowledged the recent launch of the Long March 7 rocket by the People’s Republic of China. The agency has provided details regarding the anticipated debris resulting from the rocket launch, which is estimated to have fallen within designated drop zones at distances of approximately 43 nautical miles (NM) from Bajo de Masinloc (DZ 1), 40 NM from the same location (DZ 2), and 52 NM away (DZ 3); the debris is expected to be located 98 NM from Cabra Island (DZ 3).
The Long March 7 rocket was launched from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Wenchang, Hainan, China, at approximately 2227H Philippine Standard Time on 17 January 2023.
To disseminate information about the rocket drop zone, the PhilSA issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) cautioning about an “aerospace flight activity.” The agency had previously provided a pre-launch report to relevant government bodies and authorities ahead of the launch.
While unburned debris, such as boosters and fairings, are intentionally discarded as rockets reach outer space, there remains a potential danger to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels passing through the identified drop zones. Although the projected impact areas do not include land features or inhabited regions, the floating debris poses risks, including the possibility of washing toward nearby coasts. In addition, there is a chance of uncontrolled re-entry of the rocket’s upper stages into the Earth’s atmosphere.
PhilSA is urging the public to promptly report any suspected debris sightings to local authorities. Moreover, the agency emphasizes the importance of refraining from retrieving or closely approaching such materials, which may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel. The advisory underscores the need for continued vigilance and caution to ensure the safety of individuals and maritime activities in the affected areas.