Orlando, Fla. — Minutes after takeoff of the SpaceX In-Flight Abort test launch from SLC 39A Cape Canaveral, smoke, fuel, debris could be seen on Doppler 9HD as the Falcon 9 rocket exploded mid-takeoff.
After the Crew Dragon separated and escaped, the rocket broke apart and ignited into flames as planned.
Radar beams from our sister station WFTV Channel 9 Eyewitness News picked up all those bits of debris as they radiated outward and drifted through the sky.
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Larger, heavier debris fell back to the ocean, and the Brevard County Emergency Management Office sent a tweet today asking beachgoers to be aware of/avoid debris that washes ashore.
Anyone who sees rocket debris on the beach should call 866-623-0234.