Blue Origin assesses impact of New Glenn explosion
Summary
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket exploded during a test firing at Cape Canaveral, causing major damage to the launch pad. The incident may delay Blue Origin's rocket flights and affect NASA's Artemis moon missions planned for the coming years.Key Facts
- Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded during a test on May 28, 2026, at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
- No people were harmed because the test area had been evacuated.
- The explosion likely started near the rocket’s first stage where seven BE-4 engines ignite.
- The test prepared for a launch planned for early June to deploy 48 Amazon internet satellites, which were not on the rocket at the time.
- The launch pad suffered severe damage, meaning it may take months or longer to repair.
- Blue Origin engines are also used by United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket, so the problem may affect other rocket launches.
- NASA’s Artemis moon missions depend on Blue Origin to provide lunar landers, and delays could push moon landings from 2028 into 2029.
- NASA may have to rely only on SpaceX’s lunar lander if Blue Origin cannot fly soon, but SpaceX is also facing engine troubles.
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