Elon Musk’s SpaceX lost its seventh test flight just 10 minutes after launch in mid-January. The rocket exploded at an altitude of around 90 miles and rained down metal fragments across the Caribbean. Scientists say this explosion may have released large amounts of air pollution, including 45 metric tons of metal oxides and 40 metric tons of nitrogen oxides.
Nitrogen oxides are known to damage Earth’s ozone layer. The exact amount of pollution produced by the Starship mishap is difficult to determine, but it’s believed that many tons splashed down into the ocean. Fortunately, the rocket’s upper stage is made of stainless steel, which reduces the risk of releasing harmful chemicals.
The explosion also caused disruptions to air traffic at Miami International Airport, with some flights grounded and others diverted or altered course to avoid potential debris. Researchers warn that the use of aluminum in satellites can produce toxic substances during re-entry, but the Starship’s stainless steel upper stage minimizes this risk.
Source: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/world-news/elon-musks-rocket-explosion-caused-34624236