[2/9/07] Sea Launch’s Odyssey launch platform lost its flame deflector and the aft doors of the hangar have been knocked off their supports, the company announced Feb. 9.

The flame deflector is located below the launch pad, while the hangar houses and protects the transporter-erector support structure during launch operations. Preliminary assessments indicate that other launch support equipment is in good condition, the company said.

The platform and Sea Launch Commander are returning to their home port in Long Beach, Calif., following the Jan. 30 explosion that destroyed a Zenis-3SL rocket carrying SES New Skies’ NSS-8 satellite.

“In the process of verifying her seaworthiness, the marine crew has confirmed that the Odyssey’s main structures are in good condition and marine systems are operational,” Sea Launch said. A full assessment will be conducted once the platform arrives in Long Beach.

“Our team has witnessed firsthand the robustness of the launch platform, which was designed and built to withstand a full range of conditions, including off-nominal scenarios,” Rob Peckham, president of Sea Launch, said in a statement. “The inherent strength of this vessel, combined with the safe and professional response of the launch team, characterizes a system that is capable of operating in the most demanding of conditions.”