KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
The Pacific Spaceport Complex reported an “anomaly” on a launch pad during a rocket launch dress rehearsal on Monday. The anomaly did not result in any injuries, according to Alaska Aerospace CEO Mark Lester.
Reached shortly after the incident, Lester said “I can confirm we had an anomaly on the launch pad. We are executing our emergency checklist. We request everyone stay clear of the area to allow our crew to address the situation.”
No details have been released yet as far as what caused the anomaly. Lester said Astra’s launch, previously scheduled for Tuesday, has been cancelled.
At 5 p.m. Lester said the emergency response had concluded. “The area is still hazardous and should be avoided. There will be personnel on site overnight to monitor,” he said.
California-based rocket startup Astra had scheduled its rocket “One of Three” to launch from the Narrow Cape spaceport this week. Astra has not yet responded to a request for comment.
This is a developing story. KMXT will have more details as they become available.
This story has been updated.
