Blue Origin explosion: Debris may wash ashore in Florida; here's what to do
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket explodes during static fire test
Blue Origin said all personnel have been accounted for and are safe following the explosion of a New Glenn rocket during a static fire test at Kennedy Space Center.
CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION, Fla. - Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket experienced an "anomaly" during a static fire test on the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, erupting into a massive fireball that illuminated the sky in an orange hue.
Fortunately, no one was hurt or killed in the explosion, officials said. Investigations have been launched to determine what happened and to check on the status of the launch pad.
Watch: Blue Origin rocket explodes into massive fireball
Watch: Blue Origin New Glenn rocket explodes during test
Blue Origin confirmed it experienced an "anomaly" during a static fire test Thursday night, resulting in the rocket appearing to explode on the launch pad. Fortunately, all people were accounted for and no one was hurt, officials said. John C. shared this video with us, which captured the explosion, sending massive plumes of fire and smoke into the air.
Officials warn debris could come ashore at Florida's beaches
What they're saying:
Blue Origin warned that debris from the rocket and the explosion could wash ashore some of Florida's beaches over the next several days and weeks.
Do not touch or move it
If you happen to see some debris at the beach that you believe could be from the rocket, do not touch it or remove it, as it could potentially be hazardous, officials said.
"Launch vehicle debris is potentially hazardous, direct contact poses a risk to personal health and welfare," Cape Canaveral Space Force Station said in a statement.
Report the sighting to Blue Origin
Blue Origin has created a hotline and an email address for people to report sightings of potential wreckage from the rocket explosion:
- Call 1-321-222-4355
- Email: MissionRecovery@blueorigin.com
Only call 911 if the debris poses an immediate threat to public safety, Volusia County Beaches said in a statement.
The Source: The information used in the article is from Blue Origin, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Brevard County Emergency Management, and Volusia County Beaches.