Official announcements from Space Pioneer or credible news reports

China's Tianlong-3 Rocket Accidentally Launches and Crashes During Test

Jun 30, 2024, 03:14 PM

China's Space Pioneer experienced a significant setback when the Tianlong-3 rocket, intended for orbital launches, accidentally launched during a static fire test. The incident occurred on June 30 at the company's integrated test center in Gongyi, Henan Province. The rocket, which was supposed to remain grounded, ignited and detached from its launch pad due to structural failure. It flew for about 50 seconds before crashing into a mountain and exploding in a big explosion, emitting black smoke. The rocket was powered by 9 Tianhuo-12 engines. No casualties have been reported. The Tianlong-3 is a medium-lift orbital launch vehicle developed by Space Pioneer, a private Chinese aerospace manufacturer. The company's emergency management bureau confirmed the test flight and subsequent crash.