NASA Rocket Launch Expected To Be Visible In Rumson Ended In Explosion

Photo: NASA/Patrick Black

UPDATE:

The Orbital Sciences cargo rocket that was expected to be seen high in the sky from New Jersey earlier this week exploded over the launchpad Tuesday.

And it was carrying a science experiment designed by Ocean City, N.J. High School students.

The Antares rocket, which exploded just moments after liftoff at 6:22 p.m. atNASA’s Wallops Flight Facility on the Virginia coast, was carrying the experiment in a 7-inch test tube with three compartments, according to The Press of Atlantic City.

The experiment was designed to gauge the attachment rate of E. coli bacteria to lettuce leaves in microgravity, according to The Press of Atlantic City, and could be useful in treating infections in astronauts.

Kristina Redmond, one of six OCHS students who created the experiment that was among 19 chosen nationwide, reported that the Ocean City contingent viewing the disaster live - but from a distance - was safe, according to The Press.

Calling it a “catastrophic anomaly,” NASA officials could be heard over thestreaming video at NASA TV as live images played of the smoky scene. They noted the accident occurred six seconds after liftoff.

By Greg Hambrick (Patch Staff)

We don’t get to see them often here in New Jersey, but you may be able to see a rocket streaking across the sky.

The Antares rocket is expected to launch at 6:22 p.m. Tuesday, according to NASA Twitter, at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility on the Virginia coast.

According to NASA, the launch should be visible to residents throughout the mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. A visibility map is available here.

NASA also has specific viewing maps for sites in New Jersey.

The Antares rocket will carry an Orbital Science cargo spacecraft heading to the International Space Station. On board: 5,000 pounds of supplies and experiments.

You can watch live coverage of the rocket launch prep beginning at noon on the Wallops Ustream.

The “What’s Up at Wallops” app will also help you find the precise direction to see the launch in your sky. It’s available for Android and iOS devices.

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