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Rocket Debris From China's Long March 12 Falls Near Palawan Waters, Confirms PhilSA
Photo credit: PCG
The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has confirmed that rocket debris from the recent launch of China’s Long March 12 has likely fallen into Philippine waters, with projected drop zones located off the coast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan and near the Tubbataha Reef Natural Park. While the event posed no direct threat to land or inhabited areas, authorities remain on alert for potential hazards at sea and along nearby coastlines.
The Long March 12 rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, China at approximately 6:21 PM Philippine Standard Time (PhST) on August 4, 2025. Prior to the launch, PhilSA issued a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies, including a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) identifying the drop zones and warning of potential aerospace activity in the area.
As standard procedure in many rocket launches, large components such as boosters and fairings are jettisoned during ascent and fall back to Earth. In this case, the debris was expected to land around 21 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa and 18 nautical miles from the protected waters of Tubbataha Reef.
While no damage has been reported, unburned rocket parts still pose risks. Floating debris may drift toward coastal areas, and falling remnants—though unlikely to hit land—could endanger vessels passing through the region. PhilSA also notes that the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry from the rocket’s upper stages cannot yet be ruled out.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has independently confirmed activity linked to the launch. On the evening of August 4, five loud explosions—described as booming sounds—were heard in the eastern part of Palawan. A visible condensation trail consistent with rocket exhaust was also observed in the sky, aligning with PhilSA’s earlier advisory.
Exact coordinates of the debris drop zones have been shared, covering multiple points east of Palawan. The PCG continues to monitor the area and has urged mariners, fishers, and the general public to report any sightings of suspected rocket debris to local Coast Guard stations.
PhilSA, for its part, advises the public against retrieving or handling any debris, as it may contain hazardous substances such as unspent rocket fuel. Safety precautions are in place, but cooperation from local communities is key in ensuring maritime safety and environmental protection.
While such launches are not uncommon in the region, the incident highlights the growing need for international coordination and local awareness around space activities and their potential environmental and safety impacts.
The Long March 12 rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, China at approximately 6:21 PM Philippine Standard Time (PhST) on August 4, 2025. Prior to the launch, PhilSA issued a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies, including a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) identifying the drop zones and warning of potential aerospace activity in the area.
As standard procedure in many rocket launches, large components such as boosters and fairings are jettisoned during ascent and fall back to Earth. In this case, the debris was expected to land around 21 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa and 18 nautical miles from the protected waters of Tubbataha Reef.
While no damage has been reported, unburned rocket parts still pose risks. Floating debris may drift toward coastal areas, and falling remnants—though unlikely to hit land—could endanger vessels passing through the region. PhilSA also notes that the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry from the rocket’s upper stages cannot yet be ruled out.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has independently confirmed activity linked to the launch. On the evening of August 4, five loud explosions—described as booming sounds—were heard in the eastern part of Palawan. A visible condensation trail consistent with rocket exhaust was also observed in the sky, aligning with PhilSA’s earlier advisory.
Exact coordinates of the debris drop zones have been shared, covering multiple points east of Palawan. The PCG continues to monitor the area and has urged mariners, fishers, and the general public to report any sightings of suspected rocket debris to local Coast Guard stations.
PhilSA, for its part, advises the public against retrieving or handling any debris, as it may contain hazardous substances such as unspent rocket fuel. Safety precautions are in place, but cooperation from local communities is key in ensuring maritime safety and environmental protection.
While such launches are not uncommon in the region, the incident highlights the growing need for international coordination and local awareness around space activities and their potential environmental and safety impacts.
Aug 5, 2025
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