Air Force monitors SpaceX explosion investigation

SpaceX has invited the Air Force to participate in its investigation into the cause of a Sept. 1 explosion that occurred on a Falcon 9 launch vehicle.

The rocket exploded during a propellant fill operation Thursday morning in preparation for the launch of an Israeli communications satellite, AMOS-6.

Lt. Gen. Samuel Greaves said in a statement Sept. 2 that while the incident did not involve a national security space mission, the service is working closely with SpaceX “to ensure confidence in the safe and reliable launch of critical national security space satellites.”

“The U.S. Air Force will not speculate on the cause of the anomaly; however, SpaceX has invited the U.S. Air Force to observe and be a part of the anomaly investigation process.”

The Air Force selected the Falcon 9 to launch a GPS III satellite in 2018. The service released a solicitation for a second GPS III launch this summer and the company is expected to compete with United Launch Alliance for the contract.