r/Damnthatsinteresting • u/Harry_the_space_man • 4d ago

The Chinese Tianlong-3 Rocket Accidentally Launched During A Engine Test Video

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A Chinese Rocket Exploded Today After It Accidentally Launched During A Static Fire Test.

Link: https://x.com/aj_fi/status/1807339807640518690?s=46&t=XQLIlKXE_nRmbO5OFOpZFw

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u/redpandaeater 4d ago

Well further evidence they don't have a way to even self-destruct the rocket like any sane rocket program does. Blowing it up so the vast majority of fuel is burned up before it impacts the ground is just relatively basic range safety. They haven't learned a thing since Intelsat 708's failed launch.

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u/jryan8064 4d ago

I’m actually not sure that even US rockets have the FTS explosives installed for static fire tests. I know for Starship tests, SpaceX only installs the explosives a day before actual launches, not static fires. That’s one of the ways that tank watchers down in Boca Chica know that launch is imminent.

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u/hazelquarrier_couch Interested 4d ago

I was just wondering about that. As it was going up, I kept thinking "oh, well they'll just push the self-destruct button..." and nothing...