A massive explosion occurred right after the Antares rocket hit the ground.
A NASA/Orbital Sciences press conference just ended. Here’s are the key details:
- Orbital’s Frank Culbertson said launch operators realized there was a failure at 10 to 12 seconds into the flight. They noted it on telemetry and visually.
- The range safety officer activated the vehicle destruct system at about 20 seconds.
- It’s too early to say exactly what caused the failure. Data have been locked down, which is standard procedure.
- Culbertson says it is too soon to say how long it will take to resume flights.
- There were no injuries in the accident, all personnel are safe.
- Damage was limited to the southern area of Wallops Island.
- The extent of damage to the launch pad is unknown. Some systems are continuing to hold pressure.
- Vehicle integration facility is outside the hazard zone, officials expect to see no damage there.
- Crews are allowing fires to burn themselves out and securing the perimeter.
- Personnel will enter the area on Wednesday morning to begin recovery efforts.
- Officials have warned local residents to avoid any debris they find because it might be hazardous or toxic and to notify authorities.
- NASA officials said there was nothing crucial on the Cygnus freighter.
- International Space Station could probably go until March without any resupply missions.
- A Russian Progress resupply ship is scheduled to launch on Wednesday.
- SpaceX Dragon freighter is set to fly on Dec. 9.
- Officials might rearrange some of the Dragon manifest.
- Orbital does carry some insurance on the rocket. Culbertson unable to say how much.
- There are provisions in the resupply contract to reimburse NASA for Orbital’s failure to perform. No details provided.
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