South Korean satellite launch startup Innospace launched the first commercial rocket from the Alcantara Space Center in Brazil. Unfortunately, the rocket exploded shortly after flight and ended in a massive disaster.
The rocket, named HANBIT-Nano Vehicle, lifted off at 10:13 p.m., five days later than originally scheduled for commercial launch.
According to a video widely circulating on
The Brazilian Air Force reported that the missile initially performed its vertical flight successfully, but a problem caused the missile to explode in mid-air.
According to the Air Force statement, officials and firefighters are busy analyzing the wreckage and the collision area.
Following news of the botched launch, the company’s shares fell about 24 percent, marking the biggest drop since August.
The earlier launch was also hampered due to a reported problem in a cooling unit component of the first stage oxidant supply system during final inspections and severe weather conditions.
During the launch, Innospace was expected to send eight registered payloads and five small satellites, along with operational support from Brazil.
In March 2023, Innospace was successful in launching its test vehicle HANBIT-TLV from Brazil to assess the performance of the 150 kN hybrid rocket motor.
