Mysterious Rumbling, Flash Of Light Across Waco Area

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Reporter: By Stephanie Franks
Email Address: stephanie.franks@kwtx.com

153 comments

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(November 22, 2008)—Residents across parts of Central Texas from Robinson to Valley Mills reported loud sounds and flashes of light in the sky at about 10:30 p.m. Saturday.

Space Exploration Technologies Corp. or SpaceX confirmed that crews were testing a 9-engine rocket called Falcon Nine at the company’s facility in McGregor west of Waco.

More Information On Previous Tests From SpaceX

McGregor police and firefighters were notified and McGregor residents were reportedly notified ahead of time.

SpaceX reported the test was successful.

The loud roar of the test lasted for several minutes.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: KRO Location: mcgregor on Dec 2, 2008 at 06:57 AM
Honestly most of you that make bad comments about spacex have no idea what your talking about, maybe you should do a little research before running your mouth. Im very sure that if you have any questions that you can give them a call and they would be very happy to answer them for you. Thanks

Posted by: mom Location: mcgregor on Nov 25, 2008 at 04:38 PM
Whatpeople don't seem to get is that with no warning whats so ever and an airport nearby we honestly thought a plane had wrecked! I have lived in McGregor for many years and am used to rocket testing and all but never ever had we had one like this! Our house shook so bad it felt like it was gonna fall and with a major fire close to the same area not to long ago it made it for an unpleasant evening instead of one that woul dhave been a great history lesson to our children!

Posted by: former 911 dispatcher Location: mcgregor on Nov 25, 2008 at 11:29 AM
to: Concerned Citizen - maybe you should have thorougly read my post - as it said "there are non-emergency lines you can use". If you are only wanting information, call it, its 840-2855 not 911. However, 911 operators have a lot of nonsense and, yes, B.S. calls to deal with such as (what is the phone number to tobacco junction? / what do i do since i just found out someone gave me crabs? / whats going on down the street at so-and-so's house? / dogs are barking too loudly in the daytime, can you send someone to tell the dog to stop) these are just a few things that do not need to tie up 911 lines. it's common sense, not heartless dispatchers. If we were heartless, we wouldnt send anyone, after all, those dispatchers are the ones you hear about in the news that get fired. So, allow me to re-iterate, please dont tie up 911 for info requests because if someone is TRULY in an emergent situation, i'd like them to get help after all, it may be YOU needing it.

Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 25, 2008 at 10:57 AM
They should consider themselves lucky to be able to witness history in the making. This is the vehicle that really is going to replace the shuttle. While the Ares people screw around with a bad design and have yet to really test any flight hardware while these people have been pressing ahead. I kinda wish I could have seen and heard the test myself though I'll have to wait until they launch it. I used to live in Nevada and you would see and hear weird stuff all the time. Or try living near a refinery you get weird smells,lights, and sounds all the time and just noise and light would be a welcome change.

Posted by: jack Location: McGregor on Nov 25, 2008 at 10:34 AM
To the insensitive people that seem to think they are better and more patriotic than the rest of us, wake up. You want to make fun and act like those of us that were jarred awake,without warning were in the wrong. It has nothing to do with rocket testing,patriotism or intelligence. It has to do with the company having the concern to go to the trouble to inform people in a professional manner and to make more of an attempt to have tests at a more reasonable hour, yes I know they have tests to run through but if not done at a certain time the re-schedule.And I dont appreciate Ms. Dreyer coming off in such a "what is everyone complaining about attitude,we warned people,"yeh right.She must be giving PR lessons to some of these sheep that keep sounding like her in these comments.Just a little neighborly concern Space-X.

Posted by: Dale Location: Texas on Nov 25, 2008 at 04:10 AM
Come on guys! Don't you believe in our National Anthem--"..the rocket's red glare...", or orange as the case may be. At least they had it bolted down.

Posted by: C. Darwin Location: Waco on Nov 25, 2008 at 12:10 AM
Folks that have problems with the rocket testing are the same folks that have a problem with science in general. People are scared of what they don't (and can't) understand. It's the same reason teaching evolution is coming under attack. People are scared of science. That is a sad state of affairs for our future. Wake up!! The world wasn't coming to an end Saturday night. The world didn't begin 6,000 years ago and it's sure not ending now.

Posted by: Harry Location: Robinson, Texas on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:38 PM
Rocket manufactors in McGregor include RocketDyne, Hercules and Space-X. Each of which did and still do tests. If memory serves, RocketDyne tested rockets motors for NASA for both the Gemini and Apollo programs. And Hercules tested rocket motors for missiles for the US military. In fact, the tower used which the motors are first secured and then tested is one of many structures left from both RocketDyne and Hercules. Then, unlike now, the ones warned were employees directly involved with the impending test. This because of the secrecy surrounding many of the projects being worked on at that time. Some might remember that to get through the main gate for both RocketDyne or Hercules, ID and approval was required. So, after the fact, that notice was not given makes me think of a time when sounds were heard and no news was available until days, weeks or years later as to what it was. And believe me, I remember 60's and 70's rocket tests.

Posted by: Upset Location: Lorena on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:32 PM
For those of you who so rudely insult the concerned citizens that had no idea what was going on Saturday night, your lack of compassion is appalling. Try telling my six year old daughter "there's nothing to worry about" when the sky is lit up and the house is shaking. We have lived here for over 35 years and have NEVER heard or seen anything to this extent. SpaceX could have been more responsible to the community by putting more information out to a greater number of people. There is no excuse for this.

Posted by: Ryan Location: Canada on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:49 PM
For the person who asked about how safe the air is... The Merlin engines powering the rocket run on liquid oxygen (LOX) and rocket-grade kerosene (RP-1), which is quite similar to jet fuel in some respects. It is a hydrocarbon fuel, just like diesel and gasoline, and produces essentially the same products: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, water , and of course soot. Basically the same stuff that comes out of your car. :) Now, if they were testing solid rockets (like what the shuttle uses), you might be a bit more worried, as that stuff is really quite acidic - if I recall correctly it has hydrochloric acid in it. Thankfully that stuff doesn't stay in the air for very long. :P

Posted by: Jason Location: Oh no not the rocket noise!! on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:23 PM
Well JBW, I'd hate to break it to you hippie. The air is fine around you. You won't come down with health problems. It is liquid oxygen pretty much what your head is filled with, and maybe you'll understand this. You know that farm tractor you drive that runs on diesel. It runs on the same thing except refined much more. It is natural you see no problem. Maybe you should jump off that stand.

Posted by: C B on Nov 24, 2008 at 06:54 PM
THANK YOU COMMON SENSE. We all heard it. I live in Gatesville and could hear it. I also heard the Highway Patrol Officer calling over the police radio as he was attempting to find out how to get to where the explosion was at. But everyone is always complaining about the sorry job that the cops and 911 people do. The problem is that Space X should have thought about their timing. People had children in bed. Hurray for science but who is going to pay for all of the bed sheets that had to be washed and they weren't all children.

Posted by: JC Location: out in the country on Nov 24, 2008 at 06:08 PM
Well I was in the backyard Drinkin beer and such, I thought Uncle Elmer got too close to that thar fire and farted, Wheew I though that thar world was a comming to a end, but as I find out looks like Space X is the balme fer this Now i have to applogize to Uncle Elmer........

Posted by: Donna Location: Texas on Nov 24, 2008 at 06:02 PM
It's really sad to know how many people are making such a fuss over this. You need to stop and be thankful that it was only 3 min. long and not all day or all night like our troops overseas has to listen to everyday. Think about all the little children and their moms & dads that will hold them and tell them it will be ok. We have it so easy here and have so much to be Thankful for. So get over it, no one was hurt. BE THANKFUL.

Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 05:39 PM
the video doesnt correlate because it was taken up close, not where it could recieve the full effect of the glow. or.... there was a secret nuclear attack on crawford and the media is in a frienzy trying to cover it up! oh no! Now which one sounds more liable?

Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 05:14 PM
I live about 1/4 mile from the site and when the noise started my house started to shake. My animals in and outside were scared, but I'm used to the jet burn off that is done a few times a month so I was not worried. The glow in the sky was like day light. It was really kind of neat. I've also seen the big parts of the rocket being trucked through town and thats neat too to see.

Posted by: JBW Location: McGregor on Nov 24, 2008 at 05:07 PM
Ok, I have lived here for a few years now and I know all about the tests they do out at Space X. But, I didn't know about this one. You people that think we should all know are so wrong ! I didn't buy a paper and I didn't see it on tv. And this was by far the loudest one yet and it did shake things off the walls. I live near the high school and wondered for a minute if it was the high school. But remember I said for a minute then I knew where it came from. My only question is how safe is the air we breath ? You do know what comes from one of those engines right? Now I know some know it all will jump in here and tell me I am stupid which I am not I have a college education and my question is a valid one. How healthy is our air here ??

Posted by: UKNOW Location: HERE on Nov 24, 2008 at 04:58 PM
FOR ALL OF YOU THAT COMPLAINED ... GET A LIFE. THIS IS THE TECHO AGE ..... GO TO THE WEB - TV - PHONE - IN A MATTER OF SECONDS YOU KNOW. WE DON'T WANT TO LOSE THIS COMPANY IN MCGREGOR - SO BACK OFF - TAKE ANOTHER SHOT - TAKE SOME NYQUIL AND GO BACK TO SLEEP! GEEZ LOUISE - THE RUSSIANS ARE NOT COMING BABY GIRL - GO TO SLEEP - THIS AINT "RED DAWN". BY THE WAY FOLKS - MCGREGOR HAS A ROCKET TESTING SITE HERE IN TOWN - YOU MAY HEAR/SEE/FEEL SOME THINGS FROM 10AM TO 11PM ..... YOU NOW HAVE BEEN WARNED! NOW CAN YOU REMEMBER ... SLOWLY ... T H E R E I S ........

Posted by: concerned citizen Location: mcgregor on Nov 24, 2008 at 04:36 PM
This was a great wake-up call!!! I will remember to never call 911 in mcgregor. If the current 911 operators are as heartless as "former 911 dispatcher", we would die before we would be able to get them to send help. Let me apologize to all of you 911 dispatchers that you all were "bothered" by concerned citizens.

Posted by: Krystal Location: Waco on Nov 24, 2008 at 12:25 PM
janette in Robinson, you almost made me fall on the floor i was laughing so hard. I would have been a little worried too if I lived behind a propane company!! hahahahahah

Posted by: PM Location: Gville on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:56 AM
I heard the rumble, but just assumed it was Fort Hood practicing. Never looked outside to see the glow....sorry I missed it.

Posted by: Patriot Location: Texas on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:44 AM
ROFL @ Just sayin is all!!! Dang, good thing I swallowed my drink before I read your post!! lmao!! I think I'll pass on seeing Diablo running around in his underwear....might blind me. Thanks for the laugh this morning!!

Posted by: Sandra Location: Out in the Country on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:37 AM
Out in Spring Valley, I was doing some housework when the rumble began. My husband asked what it was, and I just thought it was our neighbor revving up his hot rod. My husband went out on the back patio and stayed until the rumble was over. He came back inside and said there had been a huge red area in the sky in the direction of McGregor, and the red glow stopped when the rumbling stopped. We didn't know until the we heard the news on Sunday what had happened. The weatherperson said that a low cloud ceiling had held the sound and the flames closer to earth than would happen if it hadn't been cloudy. That's why it could be seen and heard from long distances.

Posted by: Kris Location: Waco on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:19 AM
The sky is falling, the sky is falling! Good gracious everyone! Grow up.

Posted by: Me Location: Eddy on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:51 AM
That video just doesn't correlate with what we saw on our hill in Eddy. It was a much larger area of light. Something is fishy.

Posted by: Just sayin is all Location: Ft Hood on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:25 AM
SpaceX should have posted it daily in all texas Newspapers. Posted it on the internet at all news websites, sent text messages to every cellphone from Waco to Houston and had representatives in all neighborhoods in all towns in about a 200 mile perimeter. Maybe had hot air balloon and airplanes with banners to make sure that the idiots who cant read, have no TV and cant spell internet are notified. Of course they couldnt read the banner but oh well, they tried. Its amazing. You expect a few nitwits to get on here and complain, but this is taking it to a whole new level. Personally on the next test I want to go to Oglesby and watch everyone run around in thier underwear. There is an old saying that you can please some of the people some of the time, but it looks like nothing will please most of you people....

Posted by: me Location: mcgregor on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:16 AM
cmon...if you have read the mcgregor mirror...you would have known this was coming...and i was at the ctyra arena less than a mile from the test site...it was loud and we had horses getting a little goofy....but they have been doing this for years...get over it and quit looking for reasons to b*$#h and complain...spacex gives back to the community and employs lots of people!!! its not like this was the first test they have done!!!!

Posted by: Just sayin is all Location: Ft Hood on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:08 AM
To Felix - If you have to ask, you probably wouldnt understand anyway....

Posted by: former 911 dispatcher Location: mcgregor on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:02 AM
ok, people, i just want to say: for those who are upset at 911 - get over it, you were not the only phone call these dispatchers received and you cant expect them to coddle and appease you when you only "want information" as there are non-emergency lines you can use. for everyone upset with SpaceX - again, get over it. They have a job to do and they have been notifying the police dept & media when they are about to do test runs because I HAVE ANSWERED THEIR CALLS AT MCGREGOR PD. so if you want to get upset - get upset at the media. the mcgregor paper did report a test, but was vague and gave 2 dates this test "might" happen. so, spend 75cents for a mcgregor mirror and you might know something. yes, it rattled my windows and one (non-breakable) item rattled off a shelf - BIG WHOOP! as for SpaceX - Great Job, guys - keep doing what you do - u have my support.

Posted by: Focker Location: Hewitt on Nov 24, 2008 at 09:44 AM
Well, I'm glad that terrorists were not bombing us Saturday night. It sure did look and sound like it though! Man I had to change my shorts after that one. I wish they would have told us ahead of time so we could have enjoyed it. We didn't know whether to s*it or go blind we were so scared!

Posted by: Anonymous1 Location: Waco on Nov 24, 2008 at 09:00 AM
To Brandon in Killeen...It wasnt a sound like a gunshot, nor a sound like an explosion...so you probably really did hear a gunshot. To me it was more similar to a train, lasting 5 minutes or so...it never got louder or softer...just a continuous rumbling sound.

Posted by: bk Location: oglesby on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:55 AM
Everyone in Hewitt, Woodway, Chalk Bluff, China Spring and elsewhere who thought your windows shook and it was loud, you should have been in my house. It may be a mile or so from my backyard! I would have gladly traded places with any of you.I spent the next morning straightening pictures and things on my walls. It was an amzaing sight, I watched it from my back door "after" I was almost scared to death by the sound. I too, never heard of this "planned" event. The PR dept. should be more considerate of the citizens who so graciously accepted them into our community. I have no problem with their work, but next time please do a better job of letting people know.

Posted by: JDK Location: Moody on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:30 AM
They should have let the public know that this test was going to happen. There was a youth rodeo at the CTYRA arena with many high dollar horse there. Several of the horses broke away from there where they were tied when all of the racket started. If only we had known that this was going to happen we could have been prepared and not scared out of our minds. We are just thankful that no one was hurt by a spooked horse.

Posted by: Tammy Location: China Spring on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:21 AM
I heard it, and yes it rattled my windows and pictures on the wall, but it did not wake my kids so I went on reading my book! We live close to the Waco Airport, so I assumed it was a plane or something. I did not get upset or scared. Then I went to church the next morning, and it was the talk of the day! I knew nothing of the orange glow or how everyone went rushing outside to see if the world was coming to an end. My sister lives next door and was talking about the red glow and it rattling her windows too. I feel bad I missed it. I must either be lazy or not worried enough! Just kidding. But, in living close to an airport I was thinking a bigger than normal plane was landing. Also in living close to the president's ranch, we hear the fighter planes all the time, sometimes they fly really low, and I first thought, "Is the President here this weekend?" hahaha

Posted by: Anna Location: Centex on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:18 AM
First to all in the McGregor area: You know that this happens all the time. If you suddenly didn't understand that it was SpaceX, you are an idiot. To everyone who was "terrified" and thought the world was coming to an end, Henny Penny, please don't breed.

Posted by: crs Location: hewitt on Nov 24, 2008 at 07:52 AM
I live in Hewitt. The walls and windows were shaking. But, of course, no one else in the house heard a thing! These guys could sleep through a hurricane! (Or rocket!)

Posted by: Gonzo Location: Texas on Nov 24, 2008 at 07:34 AM
As predicted, the end of the world would start in McGregor, Texas! lmao Run...the sky is falling!

Posted by: will Location: McGregor on Nov 24, 2008 at 06:18 AM
I think testing is fine but if they really are "rocket scientists," as Ms. Dreyer says then they should be able to calculate a better time to test and a better way to inform all their neighbors because I have not talked to anyone yet that was.

Posted by: George Location: China Soring on Nov 24, 2008 at 06:08 AM
OK lets put this in perspective. It is great that we have Spacex in our area making and testing rockets together with emloying local people. The reality of Saturday night was my 3 young children that were very scared and had to sleep in our bed that night. Forewarned – Forearmed

Posted by: sj Location: McGregor on Nov 24, 2008 at 05:51 AM
Emily said this am on the news that people in McGregor were forewarned,BULL.I realize the company has many things to do but taking care of their neighbors should be near the top of the list.As for the pr lady saying in the Trib."this is rocket science,"well impress us then and start the process early enough to get the test fired at a reasonable hour, since you are rocket scientists surely you know how long it takes to run through all the safety procedures?Thanks again for all the forewarning.

Posted by: Sandra Location: Central Texas on Nov 24, 2008 at 02:01 AM
You people are funny! If your that scared GO TO CHURCH! I live 40 miles away, don't read the news papers or even watch the news that often, but I knew that SpaceX was located near McGregor.

Posted by: Jess Location: Killeen on Nov 24, 2008 at 01:32 AM
I don't live in McGregor, but I agree, the folks who live in that area should have been informed if they weren't days or weeks ahead...at least some one knowing what was about to happen and spreading the word. No fun thinking a small town is being attacked late at night. Plus, I bet if the town was informed ahead of time, some would have probably liked to watch the rocket launch! Some think that stuff is pretty neat. Since info was failed to be spread about SpaceX, the chance to see a rocket launch was unsuccessful. Overall, sorry to hear about the rude awakening ya'll.

Posted by: Sorry I Missed It Location: Gatesville on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:50 PM
Wouldn't matter if was plastered all over the news or not, people would still complain and still think the sky is falling. Everyone is making a big deal over a small PR mistake. With that said, a general announcement would be in order for papers and the news. However, you can't expect them to narrow it down to an exact time. I'm just mad that I missed it. Great job SpaceX!

Posted by: emilio Location: ogelsby on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:50 PM
i think spacex owes me a new pair of underwear

Posted by: Kristan Location: Dallas on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:18 PM
That's just bull. No one tests a fricken' rocket at freaking 10:30 at night.

Posted by: Mike Location: China on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:59 PM
I am in China on business. It was very hard on me when my wife called, scared and not knowing what was going on or what to do since she and my daughter were home alone. I grew up in McGregor so test firings were an everyday occurance in my youth. Tests are imperative but ample warning through multiple forms of the media should also be imperative. Most, if not all, negative reports could have been prevented if the company P.R. people would have done their job. Good luck with future tests and learn from your mistake. The public needs to be informed.

Posted by: Mark Location: Oglesby on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:37 PM
SpaceX rocks. This company is so cool. I am proud to be part of it. As for the ones who were worried about the world comming to an end or aliens,plane crash,bombs,and all the other things that a person could think of, oh yea. it was just one cool test. As for the time of test, there are so many safety features built into this thing its unbelievable. To all those that are close minded, dont be. ONce again you rock SpaceX.

Posted by: P. Rene Location: West of Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:13 PM
Calm down I'm sure most folks around here figured out what was going on- it's not rocket science-oh wait- yes it is!

Posted by: CDK Location: McGregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 07:55 PM
I Live in Mcgregor...And I had no Idea this was going to happend....I dont tend to buy the news paper that only comes out Once a week...surely didnt see it on news or anything b4 hand....IT SCARED ME HALF TO DEATH....I have heard these Test b4 but none like this....But gotten used to it...But getting used to something such as this...If it were A tornado...I wouldnt know it.............

Posted by: xXKommieHatrrrXx Location: Patriotsville on Nov 23, 2008 at 07:28 PM
OMGGGGG RED SCARRRRRE

Posted by: Chris Location: Jackson on Nov 23, 2008 at 06:16 PM
Go SpaceX!! Keep it away from the Russians!!!

Posted by: OBEONE Location: Alderon on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:54 PM
Message for Mike regarding spacex being a public company or not.,,Are you on crack?

Posted by: a mom Location: waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:50 PM
tv and radio could has done a message before hand. someone plz show me where the notice was in the papers and radio and tv i understand testing needs to be done but let ppl know.....

Posted by: Hewitt Resident on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:19 PM
I agree with Woodway resident. My family has lived here for 2 years now, we didn't know what was going on last night and had no idea SpaceX even existed or did rocket testing. Luckily my kids are heavy sleepers and didn't wake up. Some more information would have been nice. Something on the news and not just in the local McGregor newspaper would have been really nice. My oldest had a chance to see a shuttle lift off when we lived in Florida because we knew what time it was going to happen. It would have been cool for him to see this as well if we had been forewarned and known what and when this was going to happen. As for the space aliens and UFO people --- GROW UP AND GET A LIFE!

Posted by: Stephanie Location: KWTX on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:19 PM
If you have any pictures or even video of the event, you can post them on YouCast. Just click on the YouCast logo in the left hand column. There is a guide on that page that will show you how to post pictures. Thank you for your contributions.

Posted by: Patriot Location: Texas on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:09 PM
So Diablow lives in McGregor...ROFL!!!

Posted by: Scott Location: Woodway on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:05 PM
This was insane! What type management wouldn't do the research to know how far the lights, sound and fallout would reach! And the mist - what was in those drops? Was it a "Hold my beer and watch this!" moment? If I'd wanted to live near a launch site, I would have built in Florida. No one knew if it was a terrorist attack on Crawford or Fort Hood or if the prisons had blown up in Gatesville! And, don't put that twit on video telling us to be excited and that they 'had to go' no matter what time it was! How incredibly haughty! Pompous! Arrogant! Good neighbors don't invade others space with obnoxious surprises late at night! Even movie sets have to qualify and be granted permission before shooting a controlled and contained explosion scene! It's illegal to yell 'Fire' in a theater, but you think it's fine to pull a stunt like this? If you want to be a good neighbor, don't do that crap again! If you can't behave, go away - we were here first!

Posted by: El Diablo Location: Hell on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:02 PM
As Nostradumasss said back in the 13th century, "And a great gnashing of rocket fuel will fill the sky with fire in McBregor Texis in the year that rhymes with "you round and grape"

Posted by: elly Location: hewitt on Nov 23, 2008 at 04:50 PM
I wish I had known what was going on ,I would have loved to have been able to see it instead of being afraid something was exploding or crashing near by.I didn't see any light or flames but we sure did hear it..

Posted by: P. Rene Location: West of Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 04:48 PM
That was AWESOME!

Posted by: Woodway Resident on Nov 23, 2008 at 04:12 PM
Watching the interview with the Space X spokesperson is irritating. Her "I'm sorry" is so pathetic! Does she realize the stress she caused the people who had no idea what was happening?! Whomever was in charge of deciding who gets notified should be FIRED! It wouldn't have been "inconvenient" if we knew. She should have said "We apologize for all the stress and concern it caused the community". And I didn't even know we had rocket testing in the area so how would I know to think "oh, it's probably just Space X doing testing". Some people just moved to town and don't know about their testing!! And if you can't tell by the volume of comments in the media when you rarely see this many comments on a story, let me tell you, someone really screwed up and really caused people undue emotional stress.

Posted by: mom Location: earth on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:08 PM
For all you idiots out there who have such a big imagination or are sheltered from the "real" world....there is no cover up and yes, all of the Spacex employees are alive and accounted for...including my own earthling. We are very excited and proud of all of Spacex's accomplishments, even if they ruffled a few feathers last night. America needs to be supportive of our space program and we are "America" right here in central Texas. Considering all of the safety checks that have to be made before the rocket engines are tested, I feel assured that there is no need for any of you uninformed (which is your own fault since it was published), closed minded, uneducated people not to feel as safe as anyone else on this piece of the earth. What better night than last night to view and hear history being made...thanks to the cloud cover and humidity.I have had the great experience of viewing previous tests at the sight, but am sad to say that I missed last night's.Glad Ch.10 reported the success

Posted by: DJ Location: Robinson on Nov 23, 2008 at 02:56 PM
Hey, making history is great but let people know about it. We get more information when a tornado is sighted. That means communication Space-X! And at 10:30 PM to do something like this. I was outside trying to figure what was going on. Even on the police scanner many did not know what was going on...even heard that a plane crashed. Just let the public be aware of the testing.

Posted by: John Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 02:10 PM
Sometimes the sounds of progress can be earthshaking! The fact that this is a private venture and does not cost the tax payer anything makes it even better. That engine will be putting the next satellite in orbit, and we can proudly say that it came from Central Texas!

Posted by: Concerned Resident Location: Lorena on Nov 23, 2008 at 02:07 PM
Okay Mr. Edwards and other elected officials - time for you to step in and demand some guidelines in this kind of matter. I understand that it was POSTED in the McGregor paper, but how big is that circulation??? The local TV and radio stations could have been informed so that a scrolling message or announcement could have been made 15-30 minutes prior. We do have the Presidents Ranch and a large military force in our own backyards. If the elected officials want to do something for this community, this is a GREAT place to start. So come on and show us what we are paying you for.

Posted by: Mike Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:43 PM
Is SpaceX a public company? If not, SpaceX does not owe anyone an explanation on what they do.

Posted by: Jon Location: McGregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:42 PM
Apparently some folks don't understand what it takes to get this kind of test accomplished. 1. There is a checklist to go through 2. If one item in the checklist goes wrong they have to scrap the entire process and start over. 3. That being said, if they are at the end of the checklist and it goes wrong (after 5 hours of checklist procedures) then the entire 5 hours worth of checklist must be re-done. 4. Yes, the checklist does take up to 5 hours. 5. GET OVER IT...SO YOU WOKE UP!!! This test keeps them on schedule and was actually quite nice to watch!!! Congrats Space-X

Posted by: Lee Location: McGregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:18 PM
I live just east of the airport on hwy 84. We were not warned of anythings. My first thought was that there has been a plane crash. We ran outside and joined all the neighbors in the street. My next thought was that there had been some type of major explosion in McGregor. I was worried about possible injured people. What SpaceX is doing may be a great thing but not at 10:30 at night without warning to everyone. Get your act together Space X.

Posted by: Elaine Location: Killeen on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:16 PM
My sister called me at 10:32pm, her voice trembling, upset, shaken up, scared. She asked me if I heard a loud noise and said it shook her windows, etc. in Hewitt. She along with others outside looking did not know what had happened. I have never heard her so shaken up. She was saying things about an Asteroid, end of the earth, bomb. She got me so concerned I turned on the tv and all they said was "they are checking into the mysterious explosion/sound". Space X should have notified all surrounding county residents via tv, newspapers, radio, whatever of this test starting a couple of days ahead of time. Then people would have said "oh yeah, that is just that test". I have seen rocket tests and usually they do not light up the night like that or make an explosive sound that will shake the windows that far away, the firing usually stays low. Watch the take off of a space shuttle. If something wrong did happen, an explosion of some kind, do you think they are going to tell people? No

Posted by: Excited Location: Oglesby on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:11 PM
I was aware of the upcoming test, because I read the McGregor paper. It's not a coverup at all. From our vantage point in Oglesby we have a clear view of the tripod. It was truly a sight to behold. We waited for it Friday and were disappointed it didn't happen. When it started Saturday we knew what it was and grabbed the kids to go watch. It was AMAZING! We're all excited to know our kids got a glimpse of this kind of thing in our little town. Good Luck SpaceX. We're proud of what you're doing in our area!! Also SpaceX has a great website including a blog of the launches/tests/etc. More research should be done before posting nonsense. These are trained, professional, intelligent people that are passionate about what they do. They don't deserve the negative comments they're receiving. There are have been many tests and if you haven't felt them before you shouldn't be shocked that they were unaware the noise or vibrations would reach much further then they have before.

Posted by: Ryan Location: Canada on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:00 PM
Congratulations to SpaceX on a successful firing! Maybe this is one step closer to you Americans not having to depend on the Russians for access to the space station in the 2010-2015 timeframe...

Posted by: Willy Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:46 PM
It would be sensible if SpaceX would fire all lower echelon employees from local area and move its business elsewhere. You can have your silence (and unemployment). SpaceX would make history and will pay good salaries to some less whiner-ridden community.

Posted by: Chris Location: Smith on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:36 PM
Ha Ha a cover up? Are you serious? It's the Falcon 9 producing more that a 1,000,000 pounds of thrust. It's for the N.A.S.A C.O.T.S. contract. The nine engine configureation has been run 3 times. The two before this one were 15 seconds the 30 seconds. It takes all day to get a test off. They run into mechanical issues, computer issues. It's a little more that just pushing a button and lighting it off. They have cleared it with the city to test until 11:00 p.m. You can thank the news for not getting the information out they knew about it, and act supprised when it happens. They interviewed their P.R. person right when it was over. And as far as people not knowing. SpaceX had a spectator viewing spot set up for the public 1 mile form their facility it was packed with visitors. Also, if you inform everyone about the test you have people sneaking on the property not being where they should be. Keep it away from the Russians!! Go SpaceX! Don't listen to these hippies!!

Posted by: Tama Location: Houston on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:32 PM
Hey folks - guess what - we heard AND saw something at the same time in east Houston. NOTHING so far has been reported by the media. It started at around 10:30 an continued (off and on, but more "on") until 11:00 pm. There were lights flashing, but since it was overcast, it was hard to determine exactly where the source was .... BUT it sure wasn't west of WACO, the OPPOSITE direction from where our event hailed. We thought maybe something in the ship channel, or one of the petroleum or chemical plants, but after looking at our local paper, and listening to our local newscast this morning, apparently NOTHING happened. Strange, since my brother, who also lives in Houston, called me during it saying, "Do you hear that?" and "What do you think it is?" Of course, being a target for potential terrorism, that was my first thought, but I'm open to hearing some answers, and that garbage from west of Waco ISN'T it. I'm no UFOster. But somewhere there's an answer...

Posted by: Scared Man Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:14 PM
I have seen this in my dreams and the test was no test. There was a foretelling of a loud noise and bright light and aliens are coming.

Posted by: Joe Location: Eddy on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:58 AM
I live southwest of Eddy and this was so loud that it made the whole house shake. Why in the world would they "test" a rocket at 10:30 PM. Some folks are asleep! I have heard the tests done during the day where I live but it just sounds like a long roll of thunder. This was a heck of allot louder than that. Sounded to me like someone messed up big time and so the coverup stories begin.

Posted by: Rocketmom Location: Robinson on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:51 AM
I would think the reason that there was nothing on the news about this is because Space-X didn't want a bunch of people out there during the test. We attended an open house type event out there in the summer and were very impressed at the work being done there. I agree it was a little scary to hear that type of noise at 10:30pm. Our neighbors called their family in McGregor and confirmed what we had already suspected was happening. Congratulations to Space-X for a successful test!

Posted by: Heart-Of-Texas Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:50 AM
What's New??? In about 1941 or so, It was known as the Phillips Bomb Plant, where they built bombs for World War Two, Then The Naval Ordinance Plant, Then RocketDyne, Then Hercules,Then,, Dell,,,, etc.,etc. All of them did testing(explosions, then even Dell blew-up too)!!! Were 'all' of you people born yesterday?? This has been going on for '67' years or so!!! And on a cool/cold night you can here North Ft.Hood practicing shooting Tank/Artillery gun fire!! What Crazy comments!!! Back-To-The-Future!!!!

Posted by: parent Location: McGregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:44 AM
If I didn't hear over my ems/fire pager about the warning 15 minutes in advance I never would have known about the blast. It scared the living daylights out of my children I couldn't get them to sleep til 3am and we ar talking TEENS! They were to scared after that! We need more warning than 15 friggen minutes!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Mcgregor-Temple on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:35 AM
As far as we know me and my mother were never informed about the test that was going to take place. I was at my mothers house visting and she lives about 1 mile down the road from the testing, and she was never told that this was going to happen. That is ok because we thought it was kinda cool to see something like that.

Posted by: The Truth Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:20 AM
That video is CLEARLY not what lit up the sky last night. Thanks for posting SpaceX's propaganda piece. Anyone with half a brain who was in the region knows that this video is inconsistent with what we all heard, felt and saw. I am worried about the toxic releases as well. This is bull and those guys need to come clean.

Posted by: A Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:14 AM
Also, I hope that SpaceX was lying when they stated that they were surprised that the test could be felt and heard much further away than McGregor. If it's not a lie, then there are some questions about their competence. Anyone who has ever been around rocket or jet engine operations should know how heavily the weather impacts how far the operation can be felt and heard. Saturday's weather was not unexpected. I hope that SpaceX's problems are with their PR department, not with the technical competency of the test team. Either way, SpaceX's leadership (not their PR person) needs to explain what happened, and apologize to their neighbors to start the process of earning back the public's trust.

Posted by: A Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:11 AM
The smug half-apology from SpaceX implying that the timing of the test was somehow out of their control is disconcerting. Also, I don't appreciate a company telling me what I should or shouldn't be excited about. I am excited about what SpaceX is doing, and happy it's happening in Central Texas. However, right now I'm not very happy about how they're going about it or their attitude. SpaceX missed a huge opportunity to gain the respect and admiration of their neighbors. In general, SpaceX has done a terrible job publicizing their presence and activities in Central Texas. Most people in the area didn't know that they're testing rockets in McGregor. If they had done a better job publicizing and promoting this test, they would have had people lining the roads to watch it, cheering them on. Instead, they have angry neighbors cleaning up messes on their carpets caused by frightened pets. Realtime status of test time changes could have been easily provided with a website.

Posted by: Pizzed Location: UnderHouse on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:08 AM
Absolutely ridiculous! No warning at all! I did hear on the scanner that someone was to remind a rodeo arena of a test, but that gave me no clue as to what to expect! Heads need to roll over this one.

Posted by: Kim Location: Eddy on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Well, it did give my daughter and I a start but I have been living here a long time and remembered they were building rockets out there. I've been working around jets for quite a few years and it was louder than any jet I ever heard! After figuring out what it probably was I thought it was pretty cool.

Posted by: Patriot Location: Texas on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:57 AM
Diablow, quit playing with bombs and call Stanley Steemer.

Posted by: CL Location: China Spring on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:51 AM
It was weird. Thank you to the news for explaining it to us. How cool to have something so exciting right here. I am glad it was a success. Thanks to the news. Congrats to SpaceX (and thanks for the cool video!)

Posted by: El Diablo Location: Hell on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:44 AM
Space-X's half-cocked pr strategy of trotting some bimbo out to tell us they did it for our own good is going to get them run out of town. That teamed with the fact that they're poisoning the air and water. But thanks for the backpacks.

Posted by: Blil Location: Mcgregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:42 AM
Why is everyone making such a big deal about this? IT LASTED 3 MIN!! I live like 3 seconds away from SpaceX.. yes it scared my family but we are over it and everyone else should be over it too.

Posted by: Terry Location: Lorena on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:10 AM
I bet the Execs of this company are laughing their butts off, I wish they would get BOMBED with lawsuits from scaring women, children and even pets. THERE CAN NOT BE ANY GOOD REASON FOR DOING THIS AT 10:30pm

Posted by: Rebekah Location: West on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:05 AM
Okay, one of my immeadiate family members works at SpaceX and I've been in the bunker when they do their engine testing. They call the local police every time they are about to fire. When it comes to the multiple engine test on the big test stand they not only alert the local police but they also send out an alert to the local media. Yes, this was a big test. Usually it is only a 15 second burn on the nine engines but this time they needed a 3min test. If you ever want to see americans back on the space station after the shuttles are retired, back off of SpaceX and let them do their job. I wasn't there last night when it happened but I've been to two of big engine tests and they usually fire it late at night because they have to fix the constant aborts that happen (stuck valves, low pressure on the fuel, etc.). They can fire until midnight. They tried on Friday night and had to stop. NASA would take months to do what they do in one night. Way to go SpaceX!!!

Posted by: SC Location: McGregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:00 AM
I know that these test are things that need to be done but they should inform the entire town of McGregor what's going because I thought the world was ending. Ha!

Posted by: jennifer Location: speegelville on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:57 AM
OMG come on.. i live less than 10 miles from Space X and my windows and house didn't rattle as if a bomb had gone of... talk about people over reacting... don't you think if it was an attack like some thought it was the emergency sirens would have gone off... common sense people... know the industries in your area and what those company do...granted this has been the biggest one since we moved out here a year ago... but it certainly wasn't the 1st burn they have done...get a grip people

Posted by: In Dallas on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:52 AM
Yall are hilarious. Buncha Whiners!!!

Posted by: kb Location: waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:38 AM
what a bunch of cry babies

Posted by: Anonymous1 Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:30 AM
Haha...yeah, we were out back by the campfire and it was quite loud...some slight shaking as well. I thought it was a minor earthquake...or like the start of that movie Cloverfield...just kidding. It was pretty creepy, especially when the news didnt pick up on it until after the sound quit. Everyone in our neighborhood was on the porch listening and waiting.

Posted by: Ashly Location: Oglesby on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:25 AM
we live in oglesby and no one in our small community knew what was going on as all of us are running around in a our underwear at 10:30 at night as most of us were sleeping, my husband thought we were about to blow us as that thing was on fire and is so close to a gas line! I am furious!!!!

Posted by: Roger Ramjet Location: PHX on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:36 AM
Babies!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: crawford on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:29 AM
about amateur video. hmm exciting for the local community!!! i wonder which community she was talking about!

Posted by: dave Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:17 AM
my lord, you people need to calm yourselves down, its like a room full of chickens clucking at each other. first off it was not the middle of the night, it was 10:30 at night. second. it was probably done in the evening because there was less wind. and last as for the noise being louder than ever before, this was the first test of ALL the engines going off at once, there was a notice in the paper...jesh, you don't realize how lucky we are to have this exciting event happen in our area...its no wonder we get made fun of in the national press...

Posted by: Anonymous Location: crawford texas on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:05 AM
it really would have been nice for them to have put more information out about the test. it also should have covered more than just the mcgregor area. our living room windows face mcgregor. the sock of hearing something like that and then having it light up your living room and NOT know what was going on....... there are so many points to start on where would someone begin. i wonder if they realize just how many anry and scared people there were last night. a long list of unflattering names come to mind you idiots!

Posted by: What were you thinking? Location: CHina Spring on Nov 23, 2008 at 07:30 AM
Listen to the Raw footage interview with SpaceX. I think thet are saying sorry but at least we know where they get the space from in thier name. Exciting???? 44,000 gallons of liquid oxygen - 14,000 gallons of Kerosene all in McGregors back yard.....

Posted by: Don Location: Texas on Nov 23, 2008 at 07:26 AM
If you guys want a really loud rumble, you ought to live next to the launch pads at Cape Canaveral. Live in Waco, never felt or heard a thing. I guess that's cause I live on a mountain top instead of in the flatlands.

Posted by: C3PO Location: Alderon on Nov 23, 2008 at 07:07 AM
To be a great scientist you have to have no common sense. Just let the news channels know next time when you test and we can get our kids prepeared. It could even be cool to watch when you know what it is!

Posted by: Common Sense Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 06:40 AM
T, you are an idiot. How many people do you think called 911? How many people do you think are in the police stations to answer your calls? You were scared but not hurt. You wanted information. If that 911 operator sat and talkeed with you and there were other 911 lines ringing, what would happen to those people that were hurt and need help not just information. Use your head before you speak. I guess it would make you feel better to complain about the people that you have to call when you need help. Next time when you need information try callin 411 instead of 911. U didnt have an emergency. U just wanted to know what was going on. 911 is not an information line but go ahead and complain about it.

Posted by: eric Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 06:20 AM
They always do tests....I work in McGregor and they NEVER tell anyone of these test or when they will happen. I work in a business about a mile away and we have never had notification of when they will do these.

Posted by: Mary Location: Eddy on Nov 23, 2008 at 04:56 AM
I'm south of Eddy and it rumbled my windows and the light off the horizon was so bright I could see it through my thick curtains. The rumble shook things off shelves, etc. I do not believe the video was from last night. Something happened and they are trying to cover their rears. I had just got home after no sleep for two days with my son in the hospital and I was releived for the night to get some sleep. Imagine my panic when I saw the whole horizon north of me light up and that sound -- I was calling the hospital in complete panic for my husband and son.

Posted by: T Location: Near Gatesville on Nov 23, 2008 at 02:22 AM
El Diabolo... If someone sends the carpet cleaner, please refer them My direction as the kitty litter is no longer being used.. As a matter of fact.... Has anyone seen my cats since this damn "Test" has happened???

Posted by: Matt Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:45 AM
media@spacex.com That is the email of SpaceX media relations. Bombard them with emails letting them know of their stupidity and how upset you are.

Posted by: El Diablo Location: Hell on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:32 AM
Thanks for the backpacks, Space-X. Now could you send a carpet cleaner over to my house so I can get the dog %^& stains out of my carpets?

Posted by: "mad" Location: gatesville on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:15 AM
To Doc yeah as I was running out of my house over to my parents who are both (70 )it felt like is was starting to rain. I was a little relieved because since I thought it was a fire, rain would be be a good thing....then when I found out it was "a scheduled rocket thing" I realized it might not have been rain at all excuse my french but what the @#$%^.

Posted by: A Location: Waco on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:05 AM
My apartment near downtown Waco is over 20 miles away from the SpaceX test site, and the rumble was loud enough to rattle my windows. Supposedly, this test was originally scheduled for Friday and announced in the McGregor paper. However, this test clearly impacted much more than the local McGregor area. If SpaceX doesn't have the common sense to anticipate and mitigate the negative PR created by performing a poorly publicized test at 10:30 at night, what other potentially dangerous mistakes is SpaceX making? Are they taking shortcuts caused by the same type of "Go Fever" that contributed to the Challenger disaster? This event should be an indicator for every local, state, and federal government agency that has jurisdiction that it's time to verify that SpaceX is complying with their own safety policies, as well as any applicable laws and regulations. The county should take action to ensure that the public has sufficient prior notice of any future test events.

Posted by: Worried Location: McGregor on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:58 AM
Seriously, did we all get exposed to toxic fumes and poisons from the smoke and exhaust. Someone needs to come clean to the community. This is serious and could have detrimental effects to our children.

Posted by: Brandy Location: Turnersville on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:43 AM
When you are so close to Fort Hood and Bush's ranch a small explosion will scare you. I think that Space X did not do a good job of letting the surrounding towns know what was going on. They should let the news know when they are going to do another TEST RUN.

Posted by: Kevin Location: Killeen on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:42 AM
We live in housing on post and heard it all the way out here. WTH? Cover up.

Posted by: Doc Location: Waaco on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:40 AM
Thanks SpaceX for exposing us to rocket fuel fumes and poison contaminants that went up into the air and is now settling over our communities. Thank you for the notice in advance (not). Thank you for contributing to asthma for all Central Texans. Thank you for waking up and scaring the elderly. Thanks for nothing jerks.

Posted by: T Location: Near Gatesville on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:12 AM
The UFO was a couple of weeks ago around the Stephenville area.... That was North..This was SOUTH.. Sorry UFO people.. It wasn't that.. Thank GOD it was a TEST and not a CRASH.. I for one am still MAD that 911 HUNG UP on me!!! They could have tried to calm me down or something... Jeeze.. First time to call them and I get hung up on!!! Who do you call to complain about that??? I heard that 911 is like in Canada or something like that.. ????

Posted by: Haley Location: Hewitt on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:11 AM
We heard a loud rumble and thought it was a tornado at first then went outside and saw the sky lighting up red and thought there was some sort of attack or alien invasion!!!! We were about to run for our lives!!! This is insane to be "rocket testing" at 10:30 this smells like a cover up to me

Posted by: amy Location: Oglesby on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:10 AM
This is BS! How was Mcgregor warned? I love in Oglesby and didnt hear anything about this "planned event." And why on earth was it at 10:30 at night? My whole house was shaking and car alarms were going off. Why werent more people warned about this?

Posted by: right now"mad" Location: gatesville on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:03 AM
the ground was moving and out my window the entire sky was red and we all live in the vicinity of fort hood and crawford I woke up my parents because it looked like there was a huge fire about 1/2 a mile from our houses..I follow the california fires because I lived there and it looked like something that would be hard to contain...I have never commented on anything on the internet BUT THIS LOOKED LIKE THE END

Posted by: alvin Location: west on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:58 PM
To learn more about Spacex and their conection with NASA go to nasa.com and check out pad 40. Congrats to the Spacex crew on a successful test. Making noise, making history...in our own backyard.

Posted by: CK Location: McGregor on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:56 PM
Your artical said McGregor residents were notified ahead of time. I think this was wrong. In our neighborhood there were alot of people outside trying to figure out what was going on. This was very frightining, A company out there caught on fire last year and there were alot of explosions then and the sky was lite up But tonite was a whole lot worse. A warning would be very nice.....

Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:54 PM
it was very loud i thoguht the world was blowin need to inform people about this stuff o yea yeaaaa obama!!!!

Posted by: Hewitt, Resident Location: Hewitt, TX on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:50 PM
Jeezzz scared the heck out of us why dont cha spaceX

Posted by: just up the road Location: McGregor on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:49 PM
Yes it was rocket test. Space-Ex has been here for several years now. This was the "big" test they have told the community was coming, we just didn't know when. They have been working with NASA for this latest project. Space-ex has done an incredible job of giving back to our community. Everything from providing school supplies and backpacks to our schools, to having a community wide picnic. I know these things don't take away the fear and inconvenience you all felt tonight, but I just want to let you know, they seem to be a great company to work for and have in our town.

Posted by: courtney Location: waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:46 PM
seriously, they should inform more than just the people of mcgregor about what's going on. i guess they didn't realize the power that was really behind the 9-engine rocket...wow, that's a really scary thought! glad we're all still here and lived to tell about it!!!

Posted by: CC Location: Waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:42 PM
If this was known beforehand, why wasn't something said on the 6:00 or even 10:00 news??

Posted by: Brandon Location: Killeen on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:32 PM
I heard the explosion all the way out here, and was about to call the police; I thought a gun went off (we've had a few drive-bys where I live), then @ 11:18, KWTX togo txted me, tellin me it was the test... My dog was going crazzy!!! They really need to tell more people about this... Who knew Killeen could feel the effects of that, all the way out in Waco???

Posted by: Janice Location: Spring Valley area of Lorena on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:28 PM
Yes it was the testing of rocket engines, they normally do this in the daytime. I am used to the rumbling as it rattles the windows in the house. Sometimes in the day, you can see the smoke it leaves behind but tonight the sound was louder than normal and the flames lit up the sky. From the high elevation where I live, I could see the entire flames and it was actually a beautiful site. But I knew it would scare people. Sorry everyone couldn't see the whole picture like I can.

Posted by: resident Location: gatesville on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:26 PM
about 10:30 we heard a rumbling sound just north of Gatesville.

Posted by: Virginia Location: Coolidge on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:23 PM
We also felt a slight rumble or vibration here just north of Coolidge. We heard a sound like a continuous roar of thunder. It was around 10:30.

Posted by: Carolyn Location: Robinson on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:22 PM
I would like to know how in the hec can they get away with doing something like that right here in the mist of a populated area. My son in Eddy said they thought they where under attack and it shook their windows and lit the sky up .I would like for Emily M. to check it out and that is what I want to know. It really scared them and the baby was crying so that should be tested some remote location and thanks very much for warning everone after the fact!

Posted by: dmg Location: waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:19 PM
IF this was a "rocket test", why : 1) would they be testing it this time of night. 2) Not inform the public ahead of time so we all wouldn't be scared to death. This wreaks of a cover up!

Posted by: Brad Hosher Location: Moody on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:18 PM
IT WAS ALIENS!!! The world is coming to an end!!

Posted by: T Location: Near Gatesville on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:16 PM
God dang.. Why in world cant they WARN us MANY times before doing stuff like that.. I called 911 and got a BUSY signal??? That is just NOT right!! I walked outside and in my mind "SAW" many people DEAD or BURNED... Turns out it is just a DAMN TEST at 10:30 PM when I am trying to sleep??? That is just plain BS... We should have had MANY days of CONSTANT reminders of this TEST.. Jeeze.. I am still shaking in my boots from the "disaster" that I thought happened toward the Temple area.. I am MAD at 911 for hanging up on me for calling after saying "they were looking into the situation" That is AFTER I finally got through from many BUSY signals.. I am am MAD at the NEWS media for not daily repeating we were going to have a TEST...

Posted by: Lee Location: Turnersville on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:13 PM
I think I'm at least about 40 miles away that must have been a BIG engine. It felt like a 18 wheeler setting right out side my window the glass in the door was rattling and the rumble went on for about 4 or 5 minuets. About the time I went to step outside it stopped then I heard calls on the Fire radio to dispatch talking about it.

Posted by: dmg Location: waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:13 PM
This story smells of feces.....sounds like a cover-up.

Posted by: renee Location: woodway on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:07 PM
Oh my God, the company is very irresponsible not to alert the general public about such test beforehand. My heart was racing! I ran for my children and didn't know what was happening! Our house was shaking. The sky was all aglow! Please, I beg of you some forewarning! You could literally give people a heart attack!!!!!

Posted by: Fred Said Location: Earth on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:05 PM
Its a cover up I saw a UFO!! The end is near

Posted by: janell Location: turnersville on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:03 PM
I also heard the rumble and saw the flash of fire. The rumble lasted a few minutes.

Posted by: Mary Location: Valley Mills on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:03 PM
I know that it's being reported that this was a *planned* rocket test out of McGregor, but the public should have been made aware of this so that people wouldn't have been freaked out by this. I live northwest of Valley Mills & it shook my home. I'm approx. 25 miles from where this took place. I thought my windows were going to blow as they were rattling so bad. I can just imagine how the residents of McGregor felt tonight...we watched as the flames lit up the sky & then disappear and then the rumbling noise.... sheeeesh....yes, we should have been told before hand. This is serious...

Posted by: Vicki Location: near Aquilla on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:03 PM
I also heard the loud rumbling noise but was inside the house so did not see a flash of light.

Posted by: m.i Location: waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:00 PM
they should warn us before cuz it sure scared a lot of us..and we all didn't know what it was.

Posted by: janett Location: robinson on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:00 PM
this was so scary not knowing what it was. they should have put out a news bulletin before it happened! i am still freakin out! i live behind a propane company! can you imagine!

Posted by: stephen Location: barbee on Nov 22, 2008 at 11:00 PM
i just was awoken in the middle of the night by some inconsiderate irresponsible individuals and cant seem to get anyone from Waco , Macgregor or the airport to respond or answer their phones as to the window rattling orange hue producing lite that has lit up the horizon and caused me and my family great concern.if this is how you conduct your test practices GO AWAY,WE DONT NEED YOUR SERVICES

Posted by: Patricia Location: Valley Mills on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:58 PM
It was a 6.0 here.The walls and windows in are house were shaking and I am still shaking.It really felt like a bomb had gone off.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Teague Texas on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:57 PM
I felt in here at around 10:35

Posted by: CK Location: McGregor on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:57 PM
I just wanted to let you know I have lived in McGregor for the last 10 years and we are use to them testing rockets,But this was no normal burn. It never rumbels so hard the glass shelfs in the windows rattle and we have never seen the sky light up like it did tonite. This was very out of the normal tonite

Posted by: Russ Location: Waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:56 PM
Why test a rocket at 10:30pm and not tell anyone? I guess you have to be a rocket scientist to work that one out!!

Posted by: Lindsey Location: waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:55 PM
i think that they shouldve warned us in a advance to the public not just to the police!!!!

Posted by: Emily Location: waco on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:54 PM
Someone had told me that they do not do rocket testing there in McGregor, and isnt it convient that they did it at 10:30?

Posted by: Trey Location: McGregor on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:54 PM
I have a picture of the flash of light if you guys want it... i took it with my phone and if you show me where to send it ill upload it for you.

Posted by: Felix Location: Waco,Texas on Nov 22, 2008 at 10:53 PM
Why are they doing this?

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