Rocket test in China ends in explosion

A rocket test conducted in China's Henan province ended poorly. According to a statement by the aerospace company Space Pioneer, which is working on the development of rocket technology, the Tianlong-3 rocket detached from the launch pad due to a structural failure after igniting normally during a hot test. Following the malfunction, the rocket rose into the sky and shortly after crashed into a hilly area of Gongyi city, where it exploded. Space Pioneer reported that no casualties were recorded following the initial investigation.

A statement from the Gongyi emergency management office also noted that a fire broke out in the area where the rocket stage debris fell, and that the flames have been extinguished.

The first or lowest stage of multi-stage rockets is ignited and pushes the rocket upward when launched. When the fuel is exhausted, the first stage falls away and the second stage ignites to keep the rocket in motion.

In China's Henan province, a rocket named Tianlong-3, which was under development, accidentally detached from its launch pad during a test and crashed and exploded shortly after. pic.twitter.com/cuCheKXBQZ

— 12punto (@12puntocomtr) July 1, 2024

News Source: 12punto