Morphological and elemental analysis of space launch vehicle debris retrieved from a Philippine coastal area

Abstract

Payload fairing debris retrieved post-launch within Philippine territorial waters was subjected to morphology and elemental analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Cracks and deformations, which may have been incurred from the launch, are present on the surface of most samples. Identified elements provides hints on the purpose of the parts recovered from the debris.