More Details for 1964-08-17
Original archive entry. The text, images and links below are kept as they were written.
A severe electrical storm in the vicinity of complex 19 interrupted testing of Gemini launch vehicle (GLV) 2.
Several observers reported a lightning strike at or near complex 19.
All testing was halted for a thorough investigation of this so-called electromagnetic incident. The inspection, completed on September 2, revealed no physical markings of any kind but disclosed a number of failed components, mostly in aerospace ground equipment (AGE) with some in GLV-2. This indicated that complex 19 had not been hit directly; damage was attributed to the electromagnetic effects of a nearby lightning strike or to resulting static charges. A recovery plan was prepared to restore confidence in all launch vehicle systems, AGE, ground instrumentation equipment, and facility systems. All components containing semiconductors were replaced, and all tests were to be conducted again as if GLV-2 had just arrived at Eastern Test Range.