Universe Today
A Zenit-3SL rocket carrying a Dutch communications satellite detonated on the Sea Launch platform on Tuesday, completely destroying the rocket, its satellite payload, and causing damage to the launch platform.
The launch was being broadcast live when the platform was enveloped in smoke. An official from Sea Launch said that the rocket exploded as it was taking off. Fortunately, nobody was injured in the accident - nobody was aboard the launch platform during the explosion.
The rocket was carrying an NSS-8 telecommunications satellite built by Boeing for Netherlands-based SES New Skies. The satellite was insured.
Boeing News Release
