Philippine Space Agency issues advisory on Chinese rocket debris drop zones

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has issued an advisory regarding the launch of a Long March 8A rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in China on October 25, 2026. The agency identified two primary debris drop zones resulting from the launch.

Drop Zone 1 is located within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), situated approximately 107 nautical miles from Patag Island, 122 nautical miles from Bajo de Masinloc, 164 nautical miles from El Nido, and 167 nautical miles from Busuanga.

Drop Zone 2 is located within Philippine archipelagic waters, positioned roughly 42 nautical miles from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, 42 nautical miles from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, 53 nautical miles from Pangutaran Island, and 122 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

While PhilSA does not project debris will hit land or inhabited areas, the agency warned that falling boosters and fairings pose risks to ships, aircraft, and fishing vessels. There is also a possibility that debris could float toward nearby coasts or that an uncontrolled re-entry of the rocket’s upper stages could occur.