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 attempted to launch a test firing of the Percheron engine on Matagorda Island in August 1981, but it ended in failure. As a result, SSIA sought Hudson's expertise as head of R&D, but he declined because they were committed to developing solid fuel rockets.