Authorities Warn Against Chinese Rocket Debris
ILIGAN CITY, LANAO DEL NORTE — Local officials in Zamboanga City have issued a strong warning following the recent launch of a Chinese rocket. The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and local leaders cautioned residents to avoid retrieving or getting close to any debris from the rocket. This alert comes amid concerns over the dangers posed by the Chinese rocket debris.
According to the advisory, approaching the debris risks exposure to harmful substances, including toxic rocket fuel remnants. Residents in Palawan and Zamboanga are urged to stay vigilant and heed these warnings to prevent health hazards.
Details on the Chinese Rocket Debris Incident
PhilSA confirmed that the Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan Commercial Launch Site in Wenchang, China, at approximately 3:49 p.m. on Wednesday. Expected debris from this launch was projected to fall within designated drop zones located about 120 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 42 nautical miles from Zamboanga City.
Local leaders noted that parts like unburned boosters and fairings are designed to be discarded as the rocket reaches outer space. Although these falling remnants are not expected to land on inhabited areas, they still pose risks to maritime vessels, aircraft, and fishing boats passing through the zone.
Potential Risks and Safety Measures
There is also a chance that debris could float near coastal areas or wash ashore. PhilSA highlighted the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry of the rocket’s upper stages from space, which cannot be ruled out entirely at this point.
As a precaution, authorities urged the public to immediately report any suspected debris sightings to local officials. They stressed the importance of staying clear of these materials to avoid exposure to hazardous substances.
For more news and updates on Chinese rocket debris, visit Filipinokami.com.
