Dramatic scenes unfolded at SpaceX’s Starbase facility in southern Texas on Wednesday as a Starship rocket met with a spectacular, fiery end during a pre-flight test. The explosion, described by SpaceX as a “major anomaly,” occurred while the rocket was on the test stand, preparing for its tenth flight attempt.

In a statement released on X, formerly known as Twitter, SpaceX confirmed that a safety perimeter was in place throughout the testing procedure. Reassuringly, they reported that all personnel are safe and accounted for following the incident.

SpaceX is now actively collaborating with local officials to secure the test site and the surrounding area. The company urged the public to avoid the vicinity while these safety operations are underway, emphasizing that the incident poses no threat to nearby communities. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is likely to be a significant undertaking and will undoubtedly garner considerable attention in the aerospace community.