SpaceX's Falcon 9 Rocket Explodes Minutes After Takeoff

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket was launched from Cape Canaveral on June 28 carrying cargo destined for the International Space Station. Around two and a half minutes after takeoff, the rocket exploded and broke apart in mid-air, sending multiple piece falling into the Atlantic Ocean below.

Following the incident, SpaceX reported the “vehicle experienced an anomaly on ascent,” but provided no further details about the explosion. SpaceX founder Elon Musk said the rocket “experienced a problem shortly before first stage shutdown” before adding “there was an overpressure event in the upper stage liquid oxygen tank.” They will review the data before releasing more information. Credit: Various