The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) received a report regarding unidentified falling objects seen over Northern Samar and Zamboanga Sibugay.
The sightings have been video-recorded on May 27 at approximately 3:00 AM Philippine Standard Time, and were eventually uploaded on social media.
(Courtesy of PhilSA)
Based on the predictions and tracking of objects returning from space, this circumstance is more likely related to the CZ-3B rocket launched last Aug. 19, 2019.
The PhilSA’s reconstruction of the trajectory stated that the debris started to burn off as it entered the atmosphere (altitude of 100 km) over the Indian Ocean on May 27 at 3:00 AM.
It went over Panay Gulf at 3:11 AM – where it became visible from Zamboanga Sibugay – passed through the Visayas islands, and headed to the Pacific Ocean.
Remnants from the debris could have fallen in the Pacific Ocean 978 kilometers Northeast of Eastern Samar.
Related to this, the Philippines shared the global concern on space debris mitigation and are committed to the existing guidelines and mechanisms addressing space debris risks.
Orbital debris refers to fragments of objects sent to space that are no longer functioning or in layman’s terms, “Space Junks.”
The uncontrolled re-entry of orbital debris into the atmosphere might cause damage, harm, or injuries. (Sonny Daanoy)