Several South Jersey HS Students Had Science Experiment Aboard Rocket That Exploded
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Students from a South Jersey high school had a unique connection to the unmanned supply rocket that exploded moments after liftoff Tuesday evening.
A science experiment by six students from Ocean City High School was chosen to board the rocket intended for the International Space Station.
The students, a student videographer, two teachers and three administrators were all at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia to watch the launch of the Antares Rocket. They had hoped to learn more about E. coli bacteria and how it acts in space, but, unfortunately, the rocket exploded just moments after liftoff at the launch site.
The Ocean City School District released a statement reading in part:
"We want to say that we are thankful no one was hurt in this accident. Our students and staff were in a safe, secure location to view the launch. Second, our students and staff experienced a range of emotions from disbelief to disappointment. We are not in the position to speculate on what was the cause of the accident."
"One never realizes what he or she might learn. Our students are learning that the world of science is full of twists and turns; the line between success and disappointment can sometimes be blurred. We thank the community for their concern and support during these difficult days. We also wish to thank NASA Orbital Science, and the National Center for Earth and Space Education and related organizations for the opportunity to learn more and be more."
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