Fatal explosion rips through India Space Center

"The propellant in the segment caught fire and caused severe damage to the building, in which the operations were going on," Dar said. The plant makes all the solid fuel needed for rocket boosters.

Dar said the accident would not have any adverse impact on ISRO's launch programs, as the fuel segment that exploded was a test propellant and not part of any program.

He seems to be contradicting himself there...if it's the facility where all solid motor fuel is made, how can it not have an adverse impact on ISRO's launch programs, given the substantial use of solids on PSLV and (to lesser extent) on GSLV?

Posted by T.L. James on February 24, 2004 10:29 AM