Blue Origin rocket explodes on Florida launchpad

A rocket made by the company Blue Origin appears to have exploded on its launchpad in Florida during a test.

Footage shows the rocket bursting into a massive ball of fire, engulfing the area around it.

In a statement on social media, Blue Origin said it had "experienced an anomaly" during a hotfire test. It added that all personnel have been accounted for.

The space technology company was founded in the year 2000 by Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos.

The explosion took place around 21:00 local time (02:00 +1 GMT) at Cape Canaveral. There is no threat to the public, according to Brevard County Emergency Management.

The BBC has contacted the US Space Force and NASA for comment.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a statement that it was aware of the incident.

"This test was not within the scope of FAA licensed activities," the agency said, adding that there was no impact to air traffic.

Just last month, Blue Origin's newest rocket was grounded after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered an investigation into a "mishap" involving the failed launch of a satellite.

The company attempted to place a satellite from AST SpaceMobile using its New Glenn rocket but was unable to get it as far into orbit as intended.

The space company successfully launched a New Glenn rocket from Florida last November, landing its reusable booster for the first time.