Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) revealed that its HoloLens devices are part of the package that was designated for the space station. Unfortunately they were destroyed when the rocket that was transporting the products exploded mid-flight.
The products were part of the partnership between NASA and Microsoft that took place in January during the launch of Windows 10. The two HoloLens sets were designated for an initiative called Sidekick. An official press release cited that Sidekick uses HoloLense as a virtual assistance for astronauts while they are in Space. The press release also added that another pair was to be included in SpaceX’s resupply mission that had been scheduled for June 28.
The launch was the seventh commercial resupply mission for SpaceX. Unfortunately, the two HoloLens pairs and the other products on board the rocket never made it to the international space station. According to a post on NASA’s Twitter account, the SpaceX shuttle suffered an anomaly that caused the explosion. SpaceX CEO, Elon Musk had earlier posted on Twitter that the explosion was as a result of overpressure in the upper stage liquid oxygen tank.
The SpaceX CRS-7 Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off at the Cape Canaveral Air Force on Sunday. Unfortunately, the rocket blew up a few minutes after liftoff. Fortunately, no lives were lost because the rocket was unmanned. NASA’s associate administrator for Communications David Weaver announced that the team is disappointed by the failed mission as well as the losses incurred.
Mr. Weaver reassured the public that the Astronauts on the International Space Station are safe and sound. He also added that they have sufficient resources to last them a few more months. NASA is working closely with SpaceX to identify the cause of the explosion. He added that the two will continue working together for future missions further into the Solar System. The news was rather unfortunate for Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) because the company has been seeking close ties with NASA. Having Astronauts use the company’s latest product would be an amazing milestone.