Video: Anomaly during the certification launch of the Vulcan rocket.

During the launch of the Vulcan rocket from Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral, Florida, an unexpected anomaly occurred at the 35-second mark: a fiery plume detached from one of the two solid rocket boosters, damaging the nozzle. Nevertheless, the Centaur upper stage was able to successfully place the payload model into the required orbit.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicated that it sees no need to investigate the causes of the incident. The Space Force added that they are satisfied with the second certification launch of Vulcan and intend to grant permission for launches of their payloads using this vehicle.

Vulcan was developed as a replacement for the Atlas V rocket. The launch vehicle features a two-stage design with the option to add side boosters. In its most powerful configuration, Vulcan will be capable of delivering up to 27 tons to low Earth orbit.