HAWTHORNE, Calif. (AP) – SpaceX has released dramatic footage of its booster rocket trying to land on a floating barge in the Atlantic after a launch – an unprecedented attempt that ended in a fiery explosion.
The video released Friday shows the rocket hitting the football field-sized barge at an angle, lighting up the night sky off the Florida coast.
Saturday’s landing attempt came minutes after separation from the main rocket that successfully launched groceries and science experiments to the International Space Station.
After the loss, SpaceX founder Elon Musk tweeted: “Close, but no cigar this time.” He said the impact smashed the rocket’s legs and engine section.
The Southern California-based company attempted the touchdown because it wants to launch reusable rockets to bring down costs. Another test is planned next month.