|
|
|
|
R-16 explosion
|
Mishaps of the Space Age
1960: R-16
The "R-16," a new Soviet two-stage rocket, underwent a test in Tyuratam, Russia
in October. Under pressure to demonstrate that the Soviets possessed
operational intercontinental ballistic missiles, Soviet Field Marshal Mitrofan
Nedelin arrived to personally oversee the rocket's launch. Problems developed
before the test, but Nedelin ordered it to continue, refusing to drain the
rocket of its propellant and make repairs, as workers suggested.
Field Marshal Nedelin
|
| Because of a bad wiring connection, a command signal was sent to the
second stage and ignited the engine. The engine then burned through the first
stage upper tank, causing it to explode. Much of the acid formed a toxic cloud that seared the lungs of nearby workers and onlookers. At least 91 people were killed,including Field Marshal Nedelin.
Continue: 1966
Photos: courtesy of the Ultimax Group, Inc. and VideoCosmos, Ltd.
Q&A |
Tour of Mir |
Day in the Life
Next Space Station |
Mishaps |
Resources
Teacher's Guide |
Transcript |
Site Map |
Terror Home
Editor's Picks |
Previous Sites |
Join Us/E-mail |
TV/Web Schedule
About NOVA |
Teachers |
Site Map |
Shop |
Jobs |
Search |
To print
PBS Online |
NOVA Online |
WGBH
© | Updated November 2000
|
|
|