Advisory on the Long March 8A rocket launch

(13 March 2026, Quezon City) The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) confirms the launch of the Long March 8A rocket from the People’s Republic of China. Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones: approximately 162 NM away from El Nido, Palawan, 185 NM away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 101 NM away from Patag Island (DZ 1); and 32 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, 44 NM away from Pangutaran Island, Sulu, and 47 NM away from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (DZ 2). The first drop zone is within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), while the second drop zone is within Philippine archipelagic waters.

The Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan, at around 3:49 AM PhST on 13 March 2026.

Details of the rocket drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of an “aerospace flight activity.” PhilSA disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities prior to the launch.

Unburned debris from rockets, such as the booster and fairing, are designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space. 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. There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts. Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time.

PhilSA reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted. PhilSA also cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials that may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel. #