Launch pad where rocket exploded back next year
Despite a massive explosion in October, authorities say a state-owned launch pad at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility should be repaired and ready for testing late next year.
Orbital Sciences' Antares rocket exploded seconds after liftoff on Oct. 28. The rocket was carrying a cargo ship was bound for the International Space Station.
The Virginia Commercial Spaceflight Authority provided news media outlets a tour of the launch pad damage Wednesday.
Two lightning towers were knocked down by the blast, while the two others were heavily damaged. The explosion also dug a large crater next to the launch pad, while a nearby water tower was slightly charred and had exterior lighting damaged.
Two nearby buildings scheduled to be removed prior to the explosion were also damaged.
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