A rocket exploded during launch at a Russian test site

It has been reported that a rocket exploded during launch at a Russian nuclear test site near the city of Orenburg.

After the explosion, a mushroom cloud of purple smoke rose into the sky, according to media reports. Authorities say that evacuation is not necessary and there is no threat to the population.

This Russian test site is home to a cosmodrome and a base for long-range ground-based missiles.

It is one of 11 sites in Russia from which long-range missiles, including nuclear warheads, are launched.

A video has emerged of the explosion of the rocket, which was followed by a column of purple smoke.

The Yasny test site includes a cosmodrome and a missile forces base—one of the few facilities in Russia from which long-range missiles, including those carrying nuclear warheads, are launched.