Facebook's Internet.org satellite destroyed; Mark Zuckerberg disappointed

A massive fireball and explosion erupted at SpaceX’s main launch pad, destroying a rocket as well as a satellite that Facebook was counting on to spread internet service in Africa.

There were no injuries. The pad had been cleared of workers before what was supposed to be a routine pre-launch rocket test.

SpaceX chief Elon Musk said the accident occurred during the fueling of the rocket and originated around the upper-stage oxygen tank.

The explosion - heard and felt for miles around - dealt a severe blow to SpaceX, still scrambling to catch up with satellite deliveries following a launch accident last year.

It’s also a setback for NASA, which has been relying on the private company to keep the International Space Station stocked with supplies and, ultimately, astronauts.

SpaceX was preparing for the test firing of its unmanned Falcon rocket when the blast occurred shortly after 9.00 AM at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg struck a bitter tone in his response to the explosion of the SpaceX rocket carrying a satellite intended for use on his Internet.org project in Africa.