Blue Origin Rocket Explodes During Florida Test; Jeff Bezos Confirms No Casualties

A Blue Origin rocket detonated on its launch pad in Florida during a 'hotfire' test, engulfing the surrounding area in a massive fireball. The incident took place at approximately 21:00 local time (02:00 +1 GMT) at Cape Canaveral.

Investigation Underway After 'Anomaly'

Blue Origin stated on social media that it 'experienced an anomaly' during the test, confirming that all personnel were accounted for and safe. Company founder Jeff Bezos reiterated this, adding, 'It's too early to know the root cause but we're already working to find it.' He acknowledged it was a 'very rough day' but pledged to 'rebuild whatever needs rebuilding and get back to flying.'

Brevard County Emergency Management confirmed there was no threat to the public. The US Space Force indicated that emergency responders were on scene, collaborating with Blue Origin to analyse data to determine the precise cause of the malfunction. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) acknowledged the incident, clarifying that the test was not within the scope of FAA licensed activities and had no impact on air traffic.

This explosion follows a recent grounding of Blue Origin's newest rocket by the FAA last month, due to an investigation into a 'mishap' involving a failed satellite launch attempt. That incident saw the company's New Glenn rocket unable to place an AST SpaceMobile satellite into its intended orbit. Blue Origin had successfully launched a New Glenn rocket from Florida in November, achieving a first with the landing of its reusable booster.