China is closely tracking the remnants of a Long March 5B rocket launched over the weekend, but the chances of debris causing damage are very slim, the foreign ministry said on Wednesday.
It is understood that this type of rocket adopts a special technical design and most components will be destroyed during reentry, foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said at a regular media briefing, when asked if China knew when and where the rocket debris could land.Scientists say the odds of a populated area on land being hit by such debris are low, with most of the Earth's surface covered by water.
A few hours after Zhao's attempt to allay concerns, the China Manned Space Agency disclosed the location of rocket in a rare public statement. As of 4:00 p.m. , the rocket was 263.2 km from the Earth at its farthest and 176.6 km at its nearest, the agency said, in its elliptical orbit. The rocket is expected to reenter the atmosphere in the coming days under the pull of the Earth's gravity.Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
China launches a 23-ton space station module to orbit aboard a Long March 5B rocketChina's space station is almost complete after the country launched one out of the two modules left. Astronauts will help to dock the new segment.
Read more »
U.S. accuses China of increased South China Sea 'provocations'The United States on Tuesday accused China of increased 'provocations' against rival claimants to territory in the South China Sea and other states operating there.
Read more »
Pacific Northwest Braces For Hottest Day Of Brutal Week-Long Heat WaveThe temperatures in Portland, Oregon could top 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday.
Read more »
Long Island official charged in theft of $8.4 million from private schoolA Long Island administrator has been charged with stealing $8.4 million from the private religious school where he worked, using the money to buy five homes, a fleet of luxury and collector vehicles, pay college tuition and a host of other personal items.
Read more »
Dog facing expensive surgery after hit by stray bullet on Long IslandNew York's source for breaking news and live streaming video online. Covering New York City, New Jersey, Long Island and all of the greater New York Area.
Read more »