Chinese Rocket Debris is Possible to Fall Near Cagayan, Ilocos Norte

Bryle

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has issued a public warning that debris from a Chinese rocket may fall in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, and Sta. Cagayan, Ana.

According to a PhilSA alert issued on Tuesday, the debris from the Long March 7A (CZ-7A) rocket is unlikely to fall on land, but it poses a concern to seacraft and airplanes.

“While debris from CZ-7A is unlikely to fall on land features or inhabited areas in the Philippine territory, falling debris still poses a considerable threat to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zones,” it stated.

“In July, the core stage debris of the Long March 5B rocket landed on Philippine waters in an uncontrolled reentry. In the case of Long March 7A, the possibility of a similar uncontrolled reentry of the rocket’s upper stages cannot be ruled out at this time,” it said.

The CZ-7A rocket was launched from the Wenchang Space Launch Center on Hainan Island at 9:19 p.m., according to the agency. Tuesday (Philippine Time).

PhilSA, in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, confirmed the predicted drop zones of the rocket debris from the Civil Aviation Administration of China’s Notice to Airmen.

The agency found two drop zones on Philippine soil: around 71 kilometers from Burgos, Ilocos Norte, and approximately 52 kilometers from Sta. Cagayan, Ana.

This report, along with other actionable material, was provided to all relevant government authorities prior to the launch, according to PhilSA.

“PhilSA wishes to reiterate its earlier advice to the public to immediately inform local authorities if suspected floating debris is sighted at sea,” the agency added. “PhilSA also cautions everyone against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials.”

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