SSIA conducted an engine test firing of the Percheron on Matagorda Island on August 5, 1981, but the rocket exploded due to a malfunction. SSIA then asked Hudson to become head of R&D at SSIA, but because they wished to focus on solid fuel rockets, he declined.
SSIA conducted a test firing of the Percheron engine on Matagorda Island in August 1981, which unfortunately exploded due to an issue. Following this incident, SSIA asked Hudson to lead their R&D department, but he declined because they were focused on developing solid fuel rockets.