Blue Origin’s ambitious New Glenn program has suffered a major setback after the company’s rocket exploded during a hotfire test on the launch pad at Cape Canaveral, Florida. The powerful blast sent flames and smoke high into the sky, with nearby residents reporting shaking homes and a bright orange glow briefly lighting up the area. Blue Origin later confirmed a “test anomaly” during the New Glenn hotfire operation and said all personnel were accounted for and safe, with no injuries reported. The explosion marks another difficult moment for Jeff Bezos’ space company, which has been working to bring the heavy-lift New Glenn rocket into full operation. Earlier technical challenges, including thermal engine concerns, had already impacted the program’s progress. WATCH

A deadly shootout off Cuba’s coast has triggered a major international controversy after a stolen Florida-registered speedboat carrying American citizens was intercepted by Cuban forces. Four people were killed and six injured during the violent confrontation. U.S. officials confirmed that at least one American citizen was among the dead, while others on board were U.S. residents and visa holders. Cuba has accused the group of attempting an armed infiltration and claims some suspects were linked to past criminal or terror investigations.