Rocket, created by Blue Origin, exploded on the launch pad in Florida during the test. It can be seen in the video, as the rocket turns into a huge fireball, engulfing the surrounding area in flames.
Blue Origin said in a statement on social media, that an abnormal situation occurred during the test (anomaly). The company added, that all personnel are safe. The company's founder, billionaire Jeff Bezos, commented: “It is too early to know the root cause, but we are already working on it, to find out. A very difficult day, but we will restore everything, what is needed, and back to flying. It's worth it.”
The explosion occurred around 21:00 local time (02:00 GMT+1) at Cape Canaveral. According to Brevard County Emergency Management, there is no threat to the population. The US Space Force said, that emergency services are on site, and specialists cooperate with Blue Origin, to analyze the available data and determine the exact cause of the anomaly. The explosion occurred during the test, which was conducted before the upcoming launch.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman wrote in X: “Space flight is a ruthless business, and the development of new heavy missiles is extremely difficult. We will work with our partners, to ensure a thorough investigation of this anomaly, assess impact on nearby missions and return to missile launches.”
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported in its statement, who knows about the incident. “This test was out of scope, licensed by the FAA”, - the agency noted, adding, that there is no impact on air traffic.
Just last month, the FAA launched an investigation into “incident”, related to the failed launch of the company's satellite. Blue Origin attempted to launch the AST SpaceMobile satellite into orbit using a New Glenn rocket, but could not deliver it to the planned height.
Last November, the company successfully launched a New Glenn rocket from Florida, landing her reusable booster for the first time.
Source: https://www.bbc.com