Chinese space debris lands near Palawan; no threat to safety
Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have confirmed that debris from China’s Long March 12 rocket fell on the coast of Palawan on August 4, shortly after its launch from Hainan, China.
According to PhilSA, projected debris from the launch was expected to have landed approximately 21 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa and 18 nautical miles from the Tubbataha Reef Natural Park.
The agency issued a pre-launch advisory to relevant government agencies, following a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of “aerospace flight activity.”
The Coast Guard, meanwhile, reported monitoring a series of five loud, booming explosions in eastern Palawan that coincided with the launch window between 6:14 p.m. and 6:42 p.m.
A visible condensation trail, consistent with rocket propulsion, was also observed in the sky.
Authorities said there were no immediate threats to safety or navigation. The Coast Guard continues to monitor the area and urges mariners and coastal communities to report any possible debris sightings.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila has yet to issue a statement on the incident.