HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – Several viewers reported hearing what sounded like explosions across the Huntsville area Monday evening
Officials with Redstone Arsenal say the loud noises were caused by scheduled rocket engine hotfire testing conducted by Blue Origin in the area.
The rumble you will hear today, Monday, January 5 2026 is the sound of rocket engine hotfire testing.
— Redstone Arsenal (@TeamRedstone) January 5, 2026
Hotfire testing — a static test in which rocket engines are fired while firmly secured on the ground — can produce loud booms and vibrations that carry several miles…