Apstar 2 launch failure 01.26.1995

[Shlug]

In 1995 the Apstar 2 satellite, manufactured by Hughes Space & Communications (same company responsible for manufacturing Optus-B1-3 satellites) was to be launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Centers LC-2 on the 26th of January 1995, 6:40 AM Beijing time. The rocket that was to carry Apstar 2 into orbit was the Long March 2E, which previously failed to launch Optus-B1 on the 22nd of March 1992, and Optus-B2 on the 21st of December 1992.
The rocket flew for 51 seconds before being engulfed in flames and exploding, the debris falling on village houses below, killing 6 villagers. The cause of the failure was first determined to be the fairing collapsing mid-flight, but the Chinese attempted to shift blame on the satellite and/or sabotage. The former turned out to be the true cause. This failure led to the launch vehicle to be retired the same year.

[ZachS09]

Here's a couple videos about the APStar 2 launch failure. The second one is from an amateur perspective; however, it contains profane language. Just a heads-up.

[Alter Sachse]

In 1995 the Apstar 2 satellite, manufactured by Hughes Space & Communications (same company responsible for manufacturing Optus-B1-3 satellites) was to be launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Centers LC-2 on the 26th of January 1995, 19:26 Bejing time. The rocket that was to carry Apstar 2 into orbit was the Long March 2E, which previously failed to launch Optus-B1 on the 22nd of March 1992, and Optus-B2 on the 21st of December 1992.
The rocket flew for 51 seconds before being engulfed in flames and exploding, the debris falling on village houses below, killing 6 villagers. The cause of the failure was first determined to be the fairing collapsing mid-flight, but the Chinese attempted to shift blame on the satellite and/or sabotage. The former turned out to be the true cause. This failure led to the launch vehicle to be retired the same year.

The launch took place at 6:40 a.m. Beijing time.