China rocket debris may have fallen near Patag Island in WPS —PhilSA

Debris from China’s rocket launch may have dropped near Rozul Reef and Patag Island in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) said Thursday.

“PhilSA confirms the launch of the Long March 3B/E rocket of the People's Republic of China,” the agency said in a statement.

“Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 28 nautical miles away from Rozul Reef and 38 nm away from Patag Island,” it added.

Unburned debris from rockets like the booster and faring are designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space, according to PhilSA.

PhilSA warned that falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels passing the drop zone.

“While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas, falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone,” PhilSA said.

The debris may also float around the area and drift to nearby coasts.

PhilSA said the possibility of an uncontrolled reentry of the rocket’s upper stages into the atmosphere from outer space cannot be ruled out as of now.

“PhilSA reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted,” it said.

“PhilSA also cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials that may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel,” it added. --Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News