Alaska News

Officials: Explosion cleanup done at Kodiak Launch Complex

KODIAK -- Alaska Aerospace Corp. officials say the cleanup of hazardous materials from a rocket explosion last year has been completed at the Kodiak Launch Complex.

The Kodiak Daily Mirror reports that damaged facilities are expected to be back in operation by the end of the year.

A rocket carrying an experimental Army strike weapon last August exploded during launch, damaging buildings at the complex.

Officials say the damaged facilities are being prepared for repair work planned for spring and summer.

According to officials, there was significant damage around Launch Pad 1.

A review board determined that the failed Aug. 25 launch occurred after an external thermal protective cover interfered with the launch vehicles steering assembly.

Officials say the Defense Department paid about $5 million to lease the complex.

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