On 17th January 1997 a Delta II rocket exploded seconds after launch and scattered burning debris over the surrounding area, it's one of the most spectacular rocket failures, and it was caused by a solid rocket motor splitting while under pressure. I've talked about enough exploding rockets in recent years that I wanted to start a series of videos about historic rocket failures. This isn't just going to be talking about the impressive RUD's but the nature of the failure and the hardware involve. Images & Video: USAF ULA Boeing NASA KSC Northrom Grumman / Orbital / ATK Delta II ICESAT-2 image by Brady Kenniston News Article from Aviation Week Carbon Fibre test video: