The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket exploded shortly after takeoff from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on Sunday. While the Dragon spacecraft that was attached to Falcon 9 was only carrying cargo for delivery to the International Space Station, there is a Crew Dragon designed to bring astronauts into space. SpaceX is planning its first manned mission in 2017.
SpaceX Falcon 9 Explodes After Liftoff
Key Takeaways:
- A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket exploded shortly after takeoff, destroying a Dragon spacecraft carrying over 4,000 pounds of cargo for the International Space Station.
- Preliminary analysis points to an overpressure event in the upper stage liquid oxygen tank approximately 139 seconds into flight as the cause of the failure.
- While there was no loss of life or public risk, NASA lost significant components, including important research equipment, a new docking adapter, and a space suit.
- SpaceX is leading the investigation into the mishap, classified as such by the FAA, with federal oversight.
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